AAB's Shrimp Chowdah

I like to lightly grill the shrimp (no seasonings) for this recipe, but feel free to just use any thawed cooked shrimp. The cream cheese and Half & Half gives this a nice velvety, smooth touch to the tongue.

AAB's Shrimp Chowdah

Ingredients:

1/3 cup diced celery
1/3 cup diced sweet onion
1/3 cup diced carrots (optional)
2 slices diced raw bacon
1-1/4 cup Half & Half
1 pkg cream cheese (8 oz), cut into quarters
1/2 lb (+or -) grilled shrimp, tail off
1 cup cooked cubed Red potatoes
2-3 TBS white wine (I use cheap Riesling)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional)

Directions:

In a medium pot saute the vegetables and the bacon in the butter until celery and onions are translucent and bacon is done. Draining is optional (I don't).

Add the Half & Half and cream cheese. Stir over med low heat until the cream cheese is completely melted. Turn heat to low.

Now add the potatoes, the shrimp, wine and the spices. Stir occasionally until heated through. Taste, add more salt and pepper, if needed.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional). Serve.