Delightful Crock Pot Potato and Ham Soup Recipe: A Creamy Comfort Food Classic
Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsIn the heart of cozy kitchens, where the comforting fragrance of simmered soups fills the air, lies a timeless recip……
Guide or Summary：
In the heart of cozy kitchens, where the comforting fragrance of simmered soups fills the air, lies a timeless recipe that promises to warm both the body and soul. The Crock Pot Potato and Ham Soup is more than just a dish; it's a symphony of flavors that come together to create a velvety, creamy concoction that will transport your taste buds to a realm of pure bliss.
Ingredients
To embark on this culinary journey, you'll need a selection of ingredients that are both accessible and delightful. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup diced ham, preferably from the ham shank for deeper flavor
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. **Preparation**: Begin by heating your Crock Pot on high. While it heats up, prepare your ingredients. Dice the potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. **Sautéing**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This process should take about 5 minutes.
3. **Combining Ingredients**: Once the onion and garlic are cooked, add the diced potatoes, diced ham, and sautéed onion mixture to the Crock Pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Stir everything together to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. **Cooking**: Cover the Crock Pot and let it cook on high for about 4-5 hours or on low for 8-10 hours. The potatoes should be tender and the flavors well-combined by the end of the cooking time.
5. **Finishing Touches**: Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, transfer the soup to a blender and puree in batches until everything is smooth.
6. **Adding Cream**: Return the soup to the Crock Pot and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the cream to gently warm and meld with the soup, creating a luxurious, creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Serving**: Ladle the Crock Pot Potato and Ham Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
The Crock Pot Potato and Ham Soup is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, combining the earthy sweetness of potatoes with the savory essence of ham in a creamy, comforting broth. This recipe not only satisfies the cravings for a warm, hearty meal but also offers a glimpse into the magic of slow cooking, where flavors meld and transform into something truly special. Whether you're whipping up this soup for a cozy family dinner or seeking a comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly evening, the Crock Pot Potato and Ham Soup is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Crock Pot, and embark on a culinary adventure that promises to leave you smiling and satisfied.