Potato Chowder

My Comfort Food: A Simple Potato Chowder

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when you've had a long day. For me, that comfort comes in the form of a creamy, hearty potato chowder. It's a recipe I've tweaked and perfected over the years, always adapting it to what I have on hand and what my family enjoys. This isn't some fancy, Michelin-star creation; it's the kind of soup my grandmother used to make – simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying.

The beauty of this potato chowder lies in its simplicity. It’s the kind of recipe you can easily throw together on a busy weeknight, letting the slow cooker do most of the work. I usually start by dicing the potatoes, celery, and onion. I’m not a stickler for precise measurements here; I just eyeball it, adding a bit more or less depending on my mood and what looks right. The ham adds a wonderful salty richness that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly. I like to use a good quality ham, but any kind will work. I often find myself adding a little extra, because, well, who doesn't love a little extra ham?

One thing I've learned over the years is that the amount of liquid can vary depending on the potatoes you use and how thick you like your chowder. I’ve had instances where I needed to add more broth to achieve the perfect consistency. Sometimes, I even substitute milk for part of the broth for a creamier texture. The recipe calls for half-and-half, but I've found that regular 2% milk works just as well and keeps the dish a bit lighter. And don't be afraid to experiment! A splash of cream at the end can elevate the richness, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley adds a pop of freshness.

The slow cooker is my secret weapon for this recipe. It allows the flavors to meld and deepen over time, resulting in a soup that's far more flavorful than if it were made on the stovetop. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the potatoes become perfectly tender, melting into the creamy broth and creating that irresistible, comforting texture. While the slow cooker does most of the work, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about stirring in that flour mixture at the end, watching as the chowder slowly thickens into the perfect consistency. It's a small touch that adds a significant layer of satisfaction to the cooking process.

This isn't just a soup; it's a warm hug in a bowl. It's the aroma that fills your home with the promise of comfort and the taste that reminds you of simpler times. It's a recipe passed down not through generations, but through a love of simple cooking and the joy of sharing a good meal. So, next time you're looking for a comforting and easy weeknight dinner, give this potato chowder a try. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Serving Suggestions: This chowder is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad makes a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a simple side of roasted vegetables.

Step-by-step

• Mix potatoes, sauce mix, ham, broth, celery, onion, pepper in crock pot.
• Cover and cook on low heat 7 hours.
• Mix half and half with the flour, gradually stir flour mixture into chowder until blended.
• Cover and cook on low one more hour stirring occasionally until thick.