Bacon Corn Chowder With Potatoes

INGREDIENTS

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 2 cups lower-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 3 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels, reserving 3 of the stripped cobs (6 to 8 medium ears corn)
• 1 lb unpeeled red potatoes, cubed (1/2 inch, about 3 cups)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups hot milk
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce