Welcome back, food enthusiasts! Today, I have a cozy and comforting recipe to share with you all. If you’re a fan of hearty, soul-warming dishes that are both easy to make and incredibly delicious, then you’re in for a treat. Our star for today is the “Delicious Ham and Potato Soup,” a timeless classic that’s perfect for those chilly evenings or when you need a bowl of pure comfort, I really adore Ham and Potato Soup and Homemade Meatloaf Recipe
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making this delightful soup, from the list of ingredients and equipment you’ll need to serving suggestions and how to store any leftovers. Plus, I’ve included some handy tips, shortcuts, and variations to suit your taste. So, let’s dive right in and get cooking!
Why It’s Great
There are several reasons why this ham and potato soup deserves a spot in your recipe collection:
- Ease of Preparation: This soup is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any advanced culinary skills. Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, you can whip up a pot of this soup with confidence.
- Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients like ham, potatoes, and vegetables, this recipe won’t break the bank. It’s a cost-effective way to feed your family and friends.
- Versatile: You can customize this soup to your liking. Add extra veggies, herbs, or spices to suit your taste. It’s a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity.
- Hearty and Filling: This soup is a complete meal in a bowl. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for warming up on a cold day.
Now, let’s get into the details of how to make this delicious ham and potato soup.
Ingredients
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make this comforting soup:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ham (diced) | 2 cups |
| Potatoes (peeled and cubed) | 4 medium-sized |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Chicken or Vegetable Broth | 6 cups |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| All-purpose Flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Thyme (optional) | For garnish |
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to create a paste (roux).
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Add Ham and Cream
- Stir in the diced ham and heavy cream.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat the ham through and thicken the soup.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
- Serve piping hot with your favorite crusty bread or crackers.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, skip the ham and use vegetable broth. You can also add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or broccoli.
- Creamy Texture: If you prefer an even creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the ham.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
This Delicious Ham and Potato Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some ideas:
- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or homemade rolls are perfect for dipping.
- Wine: A crisp white wine or a light-bodied red pairs nicely with the flavors of this soup.
There you have it, folks – a step-by-step guide to making the heartwarming Delicious Ham and Potato Soup. It’s a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire, and I hope you enjoy every comforting spoonful.
If you found this recipe helpful and delicious, please consider sharing it with your friends and family. And don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop.
2. Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
- Yes, using leftover ham is a great way to repurpose it into a delicious meal. Just dice it up and follow the recipe as directed.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
- While you can freeze it, keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
- You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative, but keep in mind that the soup won’t be as rich and creamy.
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