Slow Cooker Celery Soup w/ Bacon

INGREDIENTS

• 1 bunch celery (~1 1/2 pounds)
• 1 large yellow onion
• 1 lb small white potatoes
• 3 garlic cloves
• 4 cups chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1/3 cup heavy cream, milk, water, or additional stock
• 4-6 slices thick-cut bacon

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Chop the celery, onion, and potatoes into small, equally sized pieces (about 1/2 inch), and mince garlic. Combine the chopped vegetables, stock, salt, and pepper in a 3-quart or larger slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 5 to 7 hours.
2. Purée in batches in a blender or use a stick blender directly in the slow cooker.
3. Before serving, stir in cream, water, or stock to thin the soup. Fry the bacon on the stovetop until crispy. Serve bowls of soup with bacon crumbled over top.

NOTES