Irish-Style Potato Onion Soup Packed with Flavor

Heat a 6- to 8-quart stockpot, add the butter and onion, and cook gently. Do not let the onion brown. Add the peeled and sliced potatoes, milk, and chicken stock. Add 1/4 cup chives, celery seeds, and thyme. Cover and cook gently for about an hour. Prepare a roux: Melt the butter in a small saucepan and whisk in the flour. Let the flour and butter mixture (roux) bubble for 2 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Thicken the stock with the roux, whisking carefully to avoid lumps. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes and then puree together in a food blender. Add the cream and gently reheat, but do not boil. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with additional 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives and the crisply fried bacon as garnishes.