Ham And Potato Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of hearty ham and potato soup. Rich in flavor, creamy in texture, and loaded with wholesome ingredients, this soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or even as a lunch meal prep option. This easy-to-follow recipe is designed to satisfy everyone at your table. Keep reading to learn how to make a delectable ham and potato soup from scratch and discover some pro tips to elevate your dish.

What is Ham and Potato Soup?

Ham and potato soup is a rich, savory dish that combines tender chunks of ham, creamy potatoes, and a flavorful broth, often thickened with milk or cream. The base is usually made with sautéed onions, garlic, and sometimes carrots or celery to build a depth of flavor. This soup is hearty and filling, making it an ideal comfort food for fall and winter. Whether you’re using leftover ham from a holiday meal or starting fresh with ham steaks or hocks, this recipe is easy to customize and adapt to your tastes.

Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make a traditional ham and potato soup:

1. Ham – 2 cups of diced ham (leftover ham or ham steak works great)
2. Potatoes – 4 to 5 medium-sized russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
3. Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped
4. Carrots – 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
5. Celery – 2 stalks of celery, diced
6. Garlic – 2 cloves of garlic, minced
7. Chicken broth – 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
8. Milk or cream – 1 cup of whole milk or heavy cream for a creamier texture
9. Butter – 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter for sautéing the vegetables
10. Flour – 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to thicken the soup
11. Salt and pepper – To taste
12. Fresh thyme or parsley – 1 tablespoon chopped for garnish (optional)

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

If you want to add extra depth or flair to your ham and potato soup, consider including these optional ingredients:

1. Cheddar cheese – 1 cup of sharp cheddar, shredded and stirred into the soup at the end for a cheesy twist.
2. Bacon – Cook and crumble 4 strips of bacon to sprinkle on top for added smokiness and crunch.
3. Leeks – Replace onions with finely chopped leeks for a more delicate onion flavor.
4. Corn – 1 cup of sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and extra texture to the soup.

Substitutions and Variations

Ham and potato soup is versatile, allowing you to tweak ingredients based on dietary preferences or availability. Here are a few substitutions and variations:

• Gluten-free option: Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute milk or cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk to make it dairy-free. You can also skip the dairy altogether and use additional chicken broth.
• Vegetarian option: Swap out the ham for vegetarian ham or smoked tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Lower-calorie option: Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of whole milk or cream to reduce the fat content.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your ham and potato soup? Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to create a delicious meal for your family.

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Flour
   Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for thickening the soup.
3. Add the Broth and Potatoes
   Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Add the Ham and Milk
   Stir in the diced ham and pour in the milk or cream. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Adjust the Consistency
   If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot using a potato masher. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or milk.
6. Garnish and Serve
   Once the soup has reached your desired consistency, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme and a sprinkle of black pepper.

How to Cook Ham and Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes, chopping the vegetables, and dicing your ham. Having all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking makes the process smoother.
2. Sauté for Flavor: Cooking the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots in butter first enhances their flavors and adds depth to the soup.
3. Thicken the Soup: The addition of flour creates a roux that helps thicken the broth. Make sure you cook the flour thoroughly to avoid any raw flour taste.
4. Simmer for Tender Potatoes: Simmering the potatoes in the broth ensures they become soft and creamy, absorbing all the flavors.
5. Add Dairy for Creaminess: Stir in milk or cream toward the end of cooking for a rich, creamy texture.
6. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your soup to check for seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Potatoes: Be careful not to let the potatoes cook too long or they will become mushy. Check them periodically with a fork.
2. Skipping the Roux: Not making the roux properly can result in a thin soup. Be sure to cook the flour with the butter for at least 2 minutes before adding liquid.
3. Not Seasoning Enough: Soup requires a generous amount of seasoning to bring out the flavors of the ingredients. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ham and potato soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your presentation with some simple tips:

• Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, restaurant-quality presentation.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can make a big difference in presentation.
• Side Pairings: A simple side salad or a piece of crusty bread pairs perfectly with ham and potato soup.

How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

• Family-Style: Serve the soup directly from the pot with a ladle, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Individual Bowls: Dish out pre-portioned bowls and add garnishes like crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions.

Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

• Rustic Charm: Serve in rustic bowls with a side of homemade biscuits for a cozy, down-to-earth meal.
• Elegant Touch: For a more upscale presentation, drizzle a small amount of truffle oil or olive oil over the top, and serve with artisan bread.

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips

1. Use Leftover Ham: This is the perfect recipe to use up any leftover holiday ham.
2. Make It Ahead: Ham and potato soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
3. Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze ham and potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze ham and potato soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just note that the texture may change slightly once thawed.

What type of potatoes are best for ham and potato soup?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choices. Russet potatoes break down more and create a creamier texture, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better.

How can I thicken my soup?
If your soup is too thin, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.

Can I make ham and potato soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply add all the ingredients except for the milk and flour to the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the milk and flour mixture in the last hour to thicken.

Conclusion

This ham and potato soup recipe is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, savory ham, and tender potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re using it to warm up on a chilly day or as a way to use leftover ham, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy. Try out the recipe today, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations and tips to make it your own. Enjoy!

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