Chunky Potato and Ham Soup
3 medium red potatoes, peeled, cut in small cubes
2 cups water
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
ground black pepper
3 cups milk
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup cubed cooked ham
pepper to taste
Bring water and 1/4 teaspoon salt to a boil; add potatoes and cook until tender.
Drain; reserve 1 cup of cooking liquid (add water to measure 1 cup if necessary).
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Sauté chopped onion in the hot butter until tender.
Add flour to butter and onion mixture; stir until smooth.
Season with a little pepper; continue to cook and stir for 1 minute.
Gradually add potatoes, reserved 1 cup of cooking liquid, and milk.
Stir well; add cheese and ham.
Simmer potato ham soup over low heat, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes.