Ham And Potato Soup Recipe

Looking for a hearty and comforting dish to warm up your day? This Ham and Potato Soup recipe is exactly what you need! Packed with tender ham, creamy potatoes, and a blend of flavorful ingredients, this soup will become a family favorite. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make. Follow our step-by-step guide to create the perfect bowl of Ham and Potato Soup. Keep reading for ingredients, tips, substitutions, and more to make sure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

What is Ham and Potato Soup?

Ham and Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting dish made with simple ingredients such as diced ham, potatoes, onions, celery, and carrots. The soup is simmered to allow the flavors to meld together and then finished with a creamy base. The result is a filling, savory soup that’s perfect for cold weather or whenever you’re in need of some serious comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or making meal prep easier for the week, Ham and Potato Soup is always a good idea!

Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup

To create this delicious and easy-to-make soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups diced ham (leftover ham works great, or use store-bought ham steak)
• 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 large carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2% milk for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

These are the main ingredients, but feel free to adjust according to your taste and dietary needs.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some common substitutions and variations to customize the Ham and Potato Soup to your liking:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more veggies like mushrooms, corn, or bell peppers to add flavor and texture.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk. Make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Lower Carb: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower florets. You’ll get a similar texture with fewer carbs!
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour as a thickening agent or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
• Ham Substitution: If you don’t have ham, you can use bacon, pancetta, or smoked sausage for a similar salty, savory flavor.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the soup fit your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Ham and Potato Soup is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Vegetables and Ham: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes, onions, and carrots. Dice the ham and mince the garlic as well.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well. This forms a roux that will help thicken the soup. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
4. Add the Broth and Potatoes: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, and ham to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add the Milk: Stir in the milk and let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Mash or Blend (Optional): If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot. For an even creamier consistency, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the soup has reached your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot!

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

Cooking the perfect Ham and Potato Soup involves just a few simple steps. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of each stage:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: The key to a smooth cooking process is to have all your ingredients ready. Dice the ham, peel and chop the potatoes, and chop the onions, celery, and carrots. This saves you time and makes the cooking process go more smoothly.
2. Cook the Aromatics: Start by sautéing your aromatic vegetables in butter. This step enhances the flavor of the soup, giving it a rich and savory base. Cook them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Create the Roux: Making a roux is essential for thickening the soup. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, and cook it for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Simmer the Soup: Add the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. This step allows the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors. Don’t rush this process—let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes to ensure the vegetables are tender.
5. Finish with Milk: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the milk for creaminess. Stir it in slowly to prevent curdling. Simmer for another few minutes, and you’re done!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While Ham and Potato Soup is easy to make, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Make sure to keep an eye on your potatoes and carrots. Overcooking them can lead to mushy vegetables, which may affect the texture of your soup.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning. Ham can be salty, so you may not need to add as much salt as you would with other soups.
• Rushing the Roux: Cooking the roux properly is key to getting a thick, creamy soup. Make sure you cook the flour for a couple of minutes before adding the liquid.
• Skipping the Mash/Blend Step: If you prefer a creamier soup, don’t skip the step of mashing or blending some of the potatoes. This helps create a thicker, more cohesive texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving soup, and Ham and Potato Soup is no exception! Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

• Serve in Bread Bowls: Hollowed-out bread bowls are a fun and tasty way to serve this soup. The crispy exterior and soft interior pair perfectly with the creamy soup.
• Top with Crumbled Bacon: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle crispy bacon on top of your soup before serving.
• Add Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top adds richness and depth of flavor.

How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

Serve Ham and Potato Soup as a hearty main course, paired with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it as a starter before the main course at a dinner party. The versatility of this soup makes it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family meal or a more formal dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

Presentation is a great way to elevate your dish, even with something as simple as soup. Here are a few creative ways to serve Ham and Potato Soup:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives not only add color but also enhance the flavor.
• Add a Drizzle of Cream: Swirling a little cream on top before serving gives a gourmet touch to your soup.
• Serve in Small Cups: For a dinner party or gathering, serve the soup in small cups or ramekins for an elegant appetizer.

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips

Here are a few final tips to ensure your Ham and Potato Soup turns out perfect:

• Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover ham from a holiday dinner. The flavors are even better with smoked ham!
• Make It Ahead: This soup stores well, so you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freeze It: If you have leftovers, this soup freezes beautifully. Simply cool it down, store it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove when ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by combining all the ingredients except the milk and flour. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the milk and flour during the last 30 minutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Ham and Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze Ham and Potato Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I thicken the soup without flour?

If you want to avoid flour, you can thicken the soup by blending some of the potatoes or using a cornstarch slurry (mixing cornstarch with water) instead.

Conclusion

This Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal to enjoy later, this soup is versatile, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Be sure to try our tips for variations, serving, and presentation to make it your own. Enjoy your hearty and delicious Ham and Potato Soup!

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