Smoky Corn Chowder

Now, I know what your thinking. "Anjali, two food posts in one day?!" Yes, I am uploading two food posts in one day which is unusual, but this recipe is so amazing I just had to share it! This another hot recipe that will heat you up on days like this. I hope you all like it! Please leave any feedback about the recipe in the comments below. I would love to hear your thoughts.

Song: Hot Mess by Cobra Starship ;)

Ingredients:

~1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
~4-5 slices bacon, chopped
~1/2 cup diced onion or leeks
~2 cloves garlic, finely minced
~1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
~2 (10-ounce) packages frozen corn
~3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
~1 cup milk
~1/2 teaspoon salt
~1/2 teaspoon pepper
~4 green onions, white parts cut off and discarded and green parts thinly sliced

Directions:

1. In a 4 or 5-quart saucepan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until golden and crisp. Scoop onto a paper-lined plate and discard all of the bacon grease except a very thin coating (about 1-2 teaspoons).
2. Add the onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, paprika and red pepper and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn, broth and milk. Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Transfer half of the soup to a blender (very carefully - don't overfill the blender since hot liquids will expand while blending!) and puree until mostly smooth.
5. Return the blended soup to the pot and add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Taste and add more if needed.
6. Serve warm topped with green onions and bacon.