Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

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This Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or as a satisfying lunch. Made with homemade ham stock, tender potatoes, and savory ham, this soup is rich in flavor and easy to prepare. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a wholesome recipe that combines the best of simplicity and taste.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

  • 8 cups ham stock (see ingredients and steps below)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 3 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cups ham, diced
  • 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, for garnish

Ham Stock Ingredients

  • 1 ham bone
  • 2 stalks celery, halved
  • 2 large carrots, roughly chopped
  • ½ large yellow onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 12 cups water

Directions

Ham Stock Instructions

  1. In a large pot, add the ham bone, roughly chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and water.
  2. Cover with a lid and simmer on low heat for 4-6 hours.
  3. Remove the lid, stir the broth, and remove the bay leaves.
  4. Strain the broth through a very fine strainer or cheesecloth. Use as needed.

Ham Soup Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Pour ham stock into the pot and add bay leaves. Cover with a lid and simmer on low for 30 minutes.
  4. Add diced ham and potatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  5. Slowly pour in heavy cream and mix well. Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes to thicken.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

  • Calories: 129 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Fat: 3 g
    • Saturated Fat: 1 g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2 g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
  • Sodium: 356 mg
  • Potassium: 463 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Vitamin A: 4813 IU
  • Vitamin C: 7 mg
  • Calcium: 67 mg
  • Iron: 1 mg

This Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a deliciously rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. The homemade ham stock adds depth of flavor, while the creamy texture makes it a family favorite. Enjoy this hearty soup with crusty bread for a complete meal!

The Heart of the Soup: Homemade Ham Stock

The foundation of any great soup lies in its broth, and this recipe goes the extra mile by incorporating homemade ham stock. Made by simmering a ham bone with aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, this stock adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

  • Rich Flavor: The ham bone releases its savory essence during the simmering process, creating a broth that’s both robust and comforting.
  • Nutritional Benefits: Homemade stock is packed with nutrients, including collagen and minerals, making the soup not only delicious but also nourishing.
  • Customizable: The stock can be enhanced with additional herbs or spices like thyme or parsley, depending on your flavor preferences.

Using homemade stock ensures that every spoonful of this soup is rich and flavorful, setting it apart from recipes that rely on packaged broths.

The Perfect Combination of Ingredients

The success of Creamy Ham and Potato Soup lies in the careful selection of ingredients, each contributing to the dish’s overall flavor and texture:

  1. Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for this recipe. Their starchy nature helps thicken the soup while providing a creamy, smooth texture.
  2. Ham: Diced ham adds a savory and slightly smoky flavor, complementing the sweetness of the carrots and onions. Leftover ham works wonderfully, making this soup a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers.
  3. Vegetables: A classic mirepoix of onions, carrots, and celery creates a flavorful base that enhances the depth of the soup.
  4. Cream: Heavy cream (or milk) adds richness and a silky consistency, balancing the heartiness of the potatoes and ham.

Why This Soup Is a Comfort Food Classic

The appeal of Creamy Ham and Potato Soup lies in its comforting and satisfying nature. Its warm, hearty profile makes it the perfect dish for cozy nights, while its simple preparation ensures it’s accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

  • Texture: The combination of tender potatoes, creamy broth, and chunks of ham creates a delightful mix of textures in every bite.
  • Flavor: The savory ham stock, aromatic vegetables, and touch of cream result in a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both rich and comforting.
  • Versatility: This soup can be served as a main dish with crusty bread or paired with a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Making the Best Ham and Potato Soup

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ham ensure the best flavor and texture.
  2. Simmer for Maximum Flavor: Allow the ham stock and soup to simmer on low heat, giving the flavors time to meld together.
  3. Thicken to Your Preference: For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
  4. Season Carefully: Taste and adjust the seasoning toward the end of cooking, as the ham stock and diced ham may already add a significant amount of salt.

Customizing Your Soup

This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like sweet corn, peas, or green beans for added texture and flavor.
  • Make It Lighter: Substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
  • Add Herbs: Enhance the flavor with fresh thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf during cooking.
  • Go Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream as a dairy-free substitute for the heavy cream.

These customizations make the soup adaptable to a variety of tastes and dietary requirements, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal:

  • Crusty Bread: A loaf of artisan bread or warm dinner rolls is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
  • Salads: Pair with a fresh green salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the soup.
  • Toppings: Garnish with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.
  • Drinks: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or keep it cozy with a mug of spiced cider or herbal tea.

Health Benefits of Ham and Potato Soup

While this soup is undeniably comforting, it also offers several nutritional benefits:

  • Rich in Protein: The ham provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
  • Loaded with Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish.
  • Customizable Fat Content: By adjusting the type of cream or milk used, you can control the fat content to suit your dietary goals.
  • Homemade Stock: The ham stock adds nutritional value with its collagen and mineral content, supporting joint and skin health.

Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite

This Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors. It’s a dish that brings families together around the table, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. The combination of wholesome ingredients and the nostalgic flavors of homemade soup make it a timeless classic.

Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover ham or simply want a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Its ability to be customized also ensures it can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is the perfect blend of simplicity, comfort, and flavor. The homemade ham stock adds depth, while the creamy texture and tender potatoes make it a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Whether served as a cozy dinner on a cold night or a hearty lunch to fuel your day, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a recipe worth keeping in your rotation. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to the table.

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