Potato and Ham Slow Cooker Chowder

This super easy, healthy chowder is very comforting on cold days like we've been having. It tastes great and the barley and potatoes make it very filling.

------------------------------------
2 cups potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 large carrot, diced
1 cup leeks (white part only) or onions, chopped
1 medium garlic clove, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup uncooked barley
1 piece bay leaf
1/4 tsp dried thyme, crushed
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 oz Canadian-style bacon, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
1/2 cup evaporated milk
2 oz half-and-half
------------------------------------

In a slow cooker, combine potatoes, carrots, leek, garlic, broth, barley, bay leaf, thyme, pepper and bacon; cover and cook on low for 6 hours.

Stir in evaporated milk and half-and-half; heat through, uncovered, about 10 minutes. Yields about 1 2/3 cups per serving, for 6 servings.