Grandpa's Oyster Stew

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 2 cups fresh oysters, chopped

Directions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken broth, cream, garlic powder, white pepper, white wine, bay leaf, parsley, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add potatoes and cook for 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
7. Stir in oysters and cook for 5 minutes, or until oysters are cooked through.
8. Remove bay leaf and serve.

Interesting Facts

• Oyster stew is believed to have originated in the United States in the 18th century.
• It is a popular dish in the south of the United States, especially in the states of Louisiana and Mississippi.
• Oyster stew is traditionally served on Christmas Eve in some parts of the United States.