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Easy Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup

As the chilly months settle in, there’s no better way to warm the soul than with a comforting bowl of soup. This Easy Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup is a delightful dish that combines hearty ingredients with minimal effort, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Ingredients

For this simple yet satisfying soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 450g cooked ham, diced
• 500g potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400ml chicken or vegetable stock
• 300ml whole milk or cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 100g frozen peas or sweetcorn for added texture
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the cooked ham, peel and cube the potatoes, and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.

2. Combine in the Crock Pot: In the slow cooker, add the diced ham, cubed potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, and any additional vegetables you wish to include, such as peas or sweetcorn. Pour over the chicken or vegetable stock, ensuring everything is well covered.

3. Cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. During the cooking time, the flavours will meld wonderfully, and the potatoes will become tender.

4. Finish with Creaminess: Once the cooking time is up, stir in the milk or cream. This step gives the soup a velvety texture, making it even more indulgent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or a soft roll for a fulfilling meal.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Lovers: For an extra layer of flavour, consider adding grated cheese (such as Cheddar) just before serving. Allow it to melt into the soup for a cheesy finish.

• Herb Swap: While thyme and paprika work well, you can also experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or basil, depending on your preference.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in more vegetables like carrots, celery, or even leeks to enhance the nutritional value and add extra colour.

• Vegetarian Option: To make the soup vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable stock while adding more vegetables such as mushrooms or lentils for protein.

Conclusion

This Easy Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup is not only heartwarming but also incredibly straightforward to prepare. The slow cooking process allows the flavours to develop beautifully, leaving you with a deliciously rich and creamy soup that’s sure to please all palates. It’s a dish that embodies comfort and simplicity, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the colder months. So, grab your crock pot, and delight in a bowl of this hearty goodness!

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