Tender Slow Cooked Ham Stew
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Tender Slow Cooked Ham Stew, a hearty dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This stew combines savory ingredients like ham, cheddar cheese, and cauliflower with the rich, smooth texture of heavy cream. The best part? It’s made effortlessly in your slow cooker, letting you set it and forget it while it simmers into a deliciously tender meal. With just a few steps and a few hours of slow cooking, you’ll have a stew that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cheddar cheese (grated) | 8 ounces |
| Chicken stock | 14 ounces |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Garlic cloves (peeled and minced) | 3 cloves |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Ham (chopped) | 4 cups |
| Cauliflower florets | 16 ounces |
| Carrot (sliced into thin rings) | 1 cup |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by adding the chopped ham, chicken stock, grated cheddar cheese, cauliflower florets, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and heavy cream into your slow cooker. This combination of ingredients will create a rich, flavorful base for your stew.
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Stir and Mix: Give everything a good stir to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This will help the flavors meld together as they cook.
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Cook on High: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on HIGH for 4 hours. During this time, the ingredients will soften and infuse each other with incredible flavors, creating a creamy and savory stew.
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Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, stir the stew again to ensure it’s well mixed. Then, divide the delicious ham stew into bowls and serve while hot.
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Enjoy! Relish the warmth and depth of flavor in each spoonful of this easy and hearty slow-cooked ham stew. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Protein: 23 grams
Allergen Information:
This recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese and heavy cream), which may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs, especially if you’re using substitutes.
Dietary Preferences:
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Carb: With only 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this stew fits into low-carb diets such as keto or Atkins.
- High-Protein: The ham, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream provide a hearty dose of protein, making it a filling meal.
Tips for the Best Ham Stew:
- Substitute for Ham: If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try using leftover turkey or chicken instead of ham. Both work well in this recipe and still provide that savory taste.
- Make It Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese and use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream. This will maintain the creamy texture without the dairy.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans. These can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Slow Cooker Variations: If you’re in a hurry, you can cook this stew on low for 8 hours instead of high for 4 hours. However, if you prefer to let it cook a little longer for extra tenderness, the longer time will work just as well.
Conclusion:
This Tender Slow Cooked Ham Stew is a simple, yet delicious recipe that delivers comfort in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or looking for an easy meal prep option, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your household. With minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you can focus on enjoying your time with family or guests while your meal cooks to perfection. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a bowl of this flavorful stew!
