Slow Cooker Ham Hock and Chickpea Stew

• 8 cups hot water
• 4 smoked ham hocks (2 1/2 pounds)
• 1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
• 3 large carrots, cut into 2-inch lengths
• 1 medium onion, cut into 1-inch dice
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 thyme sprigs

Three medium (6-ounce) red-skinned potatoes, peeled and quartered

• 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1. 1. In a slow cooker, combine the water, ham hocks, chickpeas, carrots, bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, Add the potatoes, cover and cook on low for 1 hour and 45 minutes, until the chickpeas, ham hocks and potatoes are tender.
2. 2. Transfer the ham hocks to a large plate. Discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. When the hocks are cool enough to handle, remove the meat and coarsely chop it. Return the ham to the soup. Using a paring knife, cut the carrots in the cooker into bite-size pieces. Transfer the potatoes to a bowl and mash to a puree. Stir the mashed potatoes into the soup along with the parsley. Season with salt and pepper and serve.