POTATO SOUP WITH INSTANT POTATOES RECIPE RECIPES

Steps:

• Mix all ingredients together.
• Place items in desired container (jar or bag).
• Attach tag with preparation directions.
• Stir 1/2 cup of prepared mix into 1 cup boiling water.
• ****As a new variation for soup at home, I have been making very thin instant mashed potatoes, using chicken broth and milk for the liquid, then adding an assortment of seasonings (depends on what is on hand) like turmeric, parsley, seasoning blends, or even some flavored sea salts.
• I also like to change it up with cheese, bacon, chives, even some sour cream on top for a loaded baked potato feel.

Steps:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until golden brown, 6-8 minutes. Remove to a paper towel lined plate. Reserve 2 pieces for garnish.  Crumble the remaining 4 pieces. 
  Place the crumbled bacon, potatoes, celery, leek, garlic, stock, salt, thyme sprigs, and pepper in the base of a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker. Put the lid on the slow cooker, and cook on high for 4 hours (or low for 6 to 8 hours) until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.  Remove the thyme sprigs and discard. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to a semi-smooth consistency, leaving small chunks of potato and vegetables for texture. Stir in the sour cream. (Add 1/4 - 1/2 cup of water, to thin the soup out to your desired consistency). Serve in bowls, garnished with cheese, chives, additional sour cream, and the reserved bacon slices crumbled over top.