step 01In large saucepot, cook bacon over medium heat 5 minutes or until crisp, stirring occasionally; with slotted spoon, transfer to paper towel-lined plate. Discard all but 1 tablespoon bacon drippings from saucepot.
step 02In same saucepot with bacon drippings, cook celery, carrot and onion over medium-high heat 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add bay leaves, bell pepper, cumin, salt and black pepper; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add turkey ham, stock, chiles and potatoes; heat to a simmer and cook 10 minutes or until potatoes are very tender. With potato masher, break up potatoes slightly. Stir in corn, half and half and bacon; cook 8 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove bay leaves. Makes about 11 cups.
