New England Sweet Potato Soup

As the days get colder and shorter, homemade soup can almost always be found in my refrigerator. It's a cold, damp day....perfect for a bowl of soup.

New England Sweet Potato Soup

2 1/2 to 3 lbs. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut in 1-inch pieces

1 medium onion, chopped

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 tsp dried sage, crushed

1/4 tsp salt

1/8 tsp black pepper

32 oz. carton chicken broth

1 cup water

1/2 cup half and half

5 slices bacon, crisp-cooked and crumbled

Directions:

1. In a 3 1/2 - 4 qt. crock pot combine sweet potatoes, onion, maple syrup, garlic, sage, salt and pepper. Pour broth and water over the top.

2. cover and cook on low heat setting for 6 to 8 hours ( or 3 to 4 hours on high)

3. Using a potato masher or handheld blender, mash the soup to desired consistency. Whish in half and half. Top individual servings with crumbled bacon.

**recipe adapted from Better Homes and Gardens