Corn Chowder -a family favorite

This is my favorite Corn Chowder recipe.

3 slices bacon
1 medium onion, thinly sliced & separated in rings
2 medium potatoes, peeled & diced
1/2 cup water
17 oz can cream-style corn
2 cups whole milk
1/2 tsp salt
Pinch of pepper
2 tbl butter or margarine (optional)

In a large saucepan, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon, crumble & set aside. Reserve 2 TBL of the drippings in the pan & discard the remainder.

Add the onions & cook until lightly browned. Add the potatoes & water & cook over medium heat until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Add the corn, milk, salt & pepper & cook until heated through. Do not boil.

Pour into warmed bowls & top each serving with the crumbled bacon & a bit of butter, if using.