Ham And Potato Soup Recipe
Imagine yourself preparing a warm, comforting bowl of ham and potato soup on a chilly evening. You start by melting butter in a pot, releasing a rich aroma as you sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they're softened to perfection. This simple recipe is not just about the basic ingredients; there's a secret step that transforms this dish into a creamy delight. As you add flour to thicken the broth, you might wonder how to enhance its flavor further. Curious about the next steps to elevate your soup to something truly memorable? Let's explore how you can make it shine.
Recipe
Ham and Potato Soup is a nourishing and delicious meal that's perfect for utilizing leftover ham and a great way to warm up during cold weather. This classic dish combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy broth.
Originating from traditional European cooking, this soup has evolved over time with various regional variations, yet retains its comforting essence. The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized to fit your taste preferences or dietary requirements, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
To make Ham and Potato Soup, you'll start by preparing a base of softened vegetables in butter, followed by the addition of flour to thicken the soup. Chicken broth is then mixed in to create a flavorful liquid, into which diced potatoes are added to simmer until tender.
The diced ham and milk are stirred in towards the end of the cooking process, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. This soup isn't only quick to prepare but also incredibly filling, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
To cook the Ham and Potato Soup, begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stir well to combine, and cook for about a minute. Slowly incorporate the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, then add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the ham and milk, and continue to cook until the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
For extra tips, consider using leftover holiday ham for enhanced flavor. You can substitute heavy cream for milk if you prefer a creamier soup.
For added texture, reserve some cooked potatoes to mix back into the soup after blending for a smooth base. Feel free to adjust the seasoning with herbs like thyme or bay leaves during simmering for additional depth of flavor.
This soup freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Cooking Steps
Alright, let's get cooking!
First, you'll want to melt some butter in a large pot—consider it the magic carpet ride for your veggies.
Once they're soft and cozy, sprinkle flour over them like you're adding fairy dust, then stir in the broth while pretending you're a master soup wizard to keep things lump-free, and let those potatoes boil until they're as tender as your favorite childhood memory.
Step 1. Melt Butter in Pot
Begin by melting the three tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
You'll want to keep an eye on it, as butter can quickly go from melted to browned. Stir it gently with a wooden spoon to help it melt evenly.
As the butter melts, enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen—it's a small moment of culinary magic!
Make sure the butter is fully melted but not sizzling too much; you want it just right for the next step. If it starts to brown, reduce the heat a smidge.
Butter is like the friendly neighbor of ingredients, bringing everything together smoothly.
Once melted, your pot is ready for the next exciting adventure in your soup-making journey!
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables Until Softened
Once the butter's ready, add your diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot.
Give them a good stir, ensuring they're well-coated in that buttery goodness.
You'll want to cook these veggies over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant.
It usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes, so be patient; good things come to those who wait—or at least to those who sauté!
Keep an eye on them to prevent browning; we're aiming for a tender result, not caramelized.
If your veggies start sticking, feel free to add a splash more butter.
Step 3. Sprinkle Flour Over Vegetables
Dusting the cooked vegetables with flour is your next essential step. Grab your flour and sprinkle it over the softened veggies like you're spreading a little magic.
This might feel like you're dusting for fingerprints, but trust me, it's all part of the culinary mystery. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the flour coats every carrot, onion, and celery piece.
This step thickens the soup and creates that velvety texture you'll love. Give it about a minute of cooking time—just enough to cook out that raw flour taste without burning it.
Keep an eye on it; you wouldn't want your soup to taste like a burnt science project. Now, take a deep breath and admire your handiwork before moving on!
Step 4. Add Broth, Stir Constantly
As the flour has cooked into the vegetables, it's time to introduce the chicken broth. Pour it in slowly, and be sure to stir constantly—this is your moment to shine as a multitasking maestro!
You don't want any pesky lumps sneaking into your soup. Keep that spoon moving like you're playing in a drum circle. The broth will start to mingle with the flour, creating a smooth base that'll make your soup irresistibly creamy.
This step is essential, so maintain that stirring rhythm. It might feel like arm aerobics, but trust me, your efforts will pay off with each delicious spoonful.
Once your mixture is silky smooth, give yourself a mini high-five—you've just leveled up in soup-making!
Step 5. Boil Potatoes Until Tender
Next up, it's time to boil those potatoes until they're tender. First, verify your diced potatoes are uniform in size for even cooking.
Once the chicken broth is simmering, add the potatoes, and let them cook gently. Keep an eye on the pot, and give it a stir now and then to prevent any sticking.
You'll know they're done when you can easily pierce them with a fork—think tender, not mushy! If you're feeling adventurous, perform the ever-popular "taste test" to check their readiness.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Potato Soup recipe embodies comfort and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for a cozy meal.
It's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly nights. You'll love how easy it's to whip up, using everyday ingredients you probably already have.
Plus, it's a fantastic way to make the most of leftover ham, turning it into something truly delicious.
Feel free to get creative—add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top, or toss in some crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Remember, soups are forgiving, so don't stress about exact measurements. Enjoy the process and savor every spoonful.
You might even find yourself looking forward to those leftovers, just to make this again!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
You can definitely use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones. They'll add a sweet, earthy flavor that complements the ham. Just remember, sweet potatoes cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Soup?
You can definitely make a vegetarian version by omitting ham and using vegetable broth. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for flavor. Consider incorporating smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a savory, smoky taste.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftover soup by letting it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, stir occasionally to guarantee even warming and enjoy!
How Can I Make the Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking the vegetables. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce before serving. Taste as you go to avoid over-spicing.
Can This Recipe Be Made in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make it in a slow cooker. Just combine all ingredients except milk and flour. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the milk and flour mixture in the last 30 minutes.
