Warm Your Soul with Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup – A Hearty Delight!
As the chill of winter sets in, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup. This hearty and comforting dish is a symphony of flavors, combining succulent ham, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this wholesome masterpiece in your trusty slow cooker. Get ready to embark on a delightful culinary journey that’s not only delicious but also effortless to prepare.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup?
The magic of using a slow cooker lies in its ability to infuse every ingredient with deep, rich flavors over time. As the ham simmers alongside the potatoes and aromatic vegetables, their essences meld together, creating a soup that’s both hearty and incredibly savory. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to enjoy your day while the tantalizing aroma of this soup fills your home. It’s the perfect comfort food to warm your body and soul during the cold winter months.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8):
– 1.5 lbs (680g) of cooked ham, diced
– 5 cups (750g) of potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 3 large carrots, sliced
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 6 cups (1.4L) of low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Begin by placing the diced ham, potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery into your slow cooker. These ingredients form the heart of the soup and will slowly release their flavors as they cook.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle in the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. These herbs and spices will infuse the soup with a medley of delightful aromas and flavors.
Step 3: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Gently pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker, making sure to cover all the ingredients. The broth serves as the base for the soup, providing a rich and savory foundation.
Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the magic happen as the soup simmers and the flavors intensify over the next 6-8 hours. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can cook the soup on high for 3-4 hours.
Step 5: Creamy Finish
Once the soup has cooked to perfection, it’s time to add a luxurious touch. Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the rest of the ingredients. The creaminess elevates the soup to a new level of comfort.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Step 7: Serve and Savor
Ladle the Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color. Pair it with some warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
With its rich and savory flavors, the Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is a culinary masterpiece that will warm your soul and leave you yearning for more. The combination of succulent ham, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs makes this dish an ideal comfort food during the cold winter months. Plus, the ease of preparing it in a slow cooker makes it a convenient choice for busy days. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let the magic unfold as you savor this delightful soup with your loved ones. Get ready to create lasting memories and enjoy the heartwarming goodness of this heavenly dish!
