Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

here’s a simple recipe for Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ham, diced
• 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
• 4 cups (950 ml) peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
• 1 cup (150 g) diced carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1 cup (150 g) diced celery (about 2 stalks)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk or heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp (30 g) butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Dice the ham, peel and dice the potatoes, and chop the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
2. Cook the Vegetables and Ham:
   • In a large slow cooker, combine the diced ham, chicken broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
   • Add dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on Low:
   • Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
4. Make the Creamy Base:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk or cream until smooth. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.
5. Combine and Finish:
   • Once the vegetables are tender, stir the creamy mixture into the slow cooker.
   • If desired, add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

This soup is perfect with some crusty bread or a side salad. Enjoy your meal!