Summer Corn Chowder

Name: Summer Corn Chowder
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large white onion, diced into ¼-inch pieces (about 2 cups); 5 to 6 sprigs thyme, placed in cheesecloth and tied with kitchen twine; 5 ears yellow corn, kernels removed (about 5 cups); Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper; 4 cups Corn Stock, or homemade or low-sodium canned chicken stock; 1 pound small fingerling potatoes, cut into ½-inch-thick slices; ¾ cup half and-half; Chives, thinly sliced, for serving; Hot sauce, for serving (optional)