INGREDIENTS
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2 tablespoons canola oil
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1 carrot, finely chopped
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1 stalk celery, finely chopped
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1 sweet onion, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
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2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
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Coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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4 cups chicken stock or reduced-fat low-sodium chicken broth
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3 cups whole or 2-percent milk
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4 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 3/4 pounds)
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2 cups packed grated sharp white Cheddar (about 8 ounces)
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Snipped fresh chives, for garnish