Ingredients:
- 3 lbs russet potatoes: Choose firm potatoes, peel them thoroughly, and dice into even cubes for consistent cooking.
- 1 lb ham: Opt for pre-cooked ham to save time, and dice it into bite-sized pieces. Smoked ham adds a richer flavor.
- 1 onion: Finely chop the onion to distribute its flavor throughout the soup.
- 4 cloves of garlic: Mince the garlic finely to release its aromatic properties.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Crush the rosemary slightly to enhance its fragrance and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Add these according to your taste preference. It’s best to start with a conservative amount and adjust later.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Use a good-quality broth as the base of your soup for the best flavor.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This will enrich the soup, giving it a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Chopped parsley: For garnish, adding a fresh, herbal touch.
Instructions:
- Preparation of Ingredients:
- Peel and dice the potatoes. Make sure all pieces are approximately the same size to cook evenly.
- Dice the ham into small cubes. If using thicker slices or a larger piece of ham, ensure it’s fully diced before adding to the pot.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic as directed.
- Combining the Ingredients:
- In your slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients well to ensure that the herbs and seasoning are evenly distributed.
- Cooking the Soup:
- Pour the chicken broth over the mixed ingredients in the slow cooker. The broth should just cover the contents; adjust the quantity slightly if necessary.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the cooker to low and allow the soup to cook for 7-8 hours. For a quicker option, set it to high and cook for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process will meld the flavors beautifully and soften the potatoes just right.
- Final Touches:
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the heavy cream. This will transform the broth into a rich, creamy base.
- Continue cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes, or until the soup is thoroughly heated and the cream is well incorporated.
- Seasoning and Serving:
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Enhancements: Consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup, a delicious and comforting meal perfect for any day of the week!
