Are you ready to transform your slow cooker into a flavor powerhouse? This Crock Pot Parsnip Ham Chowder isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary adventure that combines the earthy sweetness of parsnips with savory ham in a creamy, nutrient-packed dish that will make your taste buds dance! Perfect for cold days, health-conscious eaters, and anyone craving a hearty meal that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition, this Paleo-friendly chowder is about to become your new comfort food obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Paleo
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups parsnips, diced
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping parsnips into small, uniform dice approximately 1/2 inch cubes to ensure even cooking
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves, ensuring pieces are small for better flavor distribution throughout the chowder
- Dice the ham into small, bite-sized pieces, removing any excess fat if desired
- Grease the interior of the crock pot with a light coating of coconut oil or olive oil to prevent sticking
- Layer ingredients in the crock pot starting with chopped onions and minced garlic as the base layer
- Add diced parsnips and ham on top of the onion and garlic mixture
- Sprinkle dried thyme evenly across the ingredients for consistent herb flavor
- Pour chicken broth and coconut milk over the ingredients, ensuring all components are mostly submerged
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences
- Cover crock pot and set to low heat setting for 6 hours, allowing ingredients to slowly simmer and develop rich flavors
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent ingredients from sticking and ensure even heat distribution
- After 6 hours, check parsnips for tenderness and adjust seasoning if needed
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper
Tips
- Dice ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the chowder.
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken broth for the most robust flavor profile.
- Don't rush the cooking process—the slow, low heat is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors.
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some parsnips against the side of the pot during the last hour of cooking.
- For added nutrition, consider using bone broth instead of regular chicken broth.
- Taste and adjust seasonings in the final hour of cooking to perfect the flavor balance.
- Let the chowder rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to fully meld together.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 20mg
