Ham soup is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re using up leftover holiday ham or starting fresh with a hearty cut, this soup combines rich, savory flavors with tender vegetables to create a satisfying meal.
It’s the perfect dish for chilly days or when you want something cozy that doesn’t take hours to prepare. Below is the ultimate ham soup recipe, complete with tips and FAQs to help you master this classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked ham (cubed, or leftover ham from a bone-in ham)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups water (adjust as needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by cubing the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces. If using leftover ham, ensure that it’s cut into chunks and any bone is discarded (unless you’re using a ham bone for added flavor).
- Peel and chop the carrots, celery, and potatoes into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and a balanced texture in the soup.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Build the Soup Base:
- Add the cubed ham to the pot and let it sauté for 3-4 minutes. This helps the ham release its savory juices, adding more flavor to the broth.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, then season with dried thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, ensuring the vegetables and ham are well covered. Stir in the bay leaf, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
5. Add the Peas:
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and allow them to heat through. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot with crusty bread or a slice of cornbread on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Ham Soup:
- Ham Selection: Use a high-quality, cooked ham, or a leftover ham bone for even more flavor. If you have a ham bone, you can add it to the broth while simmering and remove it before serving.
- Vegetables: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have available. Green beans, parsnips, or sweet potatoes would all be great additions.
- Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender, then stir it back into the pot to create a creamy consistency.
- Spices: You can experiment with adding other herbs and spices, such as parsley, sage, or a splash of hot sauce for some heat. Just remember to taste as you go, and adjust accordingly.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use uncooked ham for this soup?
Yes, you can use uncooked ham, though the process will take a bit longer. You’ll need to cook the ham until it’s tender and fully cooked, which could take an hour or more. It’s best to start by browning the ham in the pot before adding the vegetables and broth. If you use a ham bone, it will impart a deeper flavor to the broth, making it more robust.
2. Can I freeze ham soup?
Yes, ham soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Keep in mind that potatoes can sometimes become mushy after freezing, so you may want to add fresh potatoes when reheating if you prefer a firmer texture.
3. Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
You can easily make a vegetarian or vegan version of ham soup by substituting the ham with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan sausage or smoked tofu, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
4. How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker, heartier soup, you can blend part of the soup after it has cooked. Use an immersion blender to puree some of the vegetables and ham directly in the pot, or transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend it until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher.
5. Can I add beans to this ham soup?
Absolutely! Beans like white beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans are a great addition to ham soup. They will add extra protein and fiber while also contributing to the soup’s creamy texture. If you’re adding canned beans, make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup to reduce sodium content.
6. How long will this soup last in the fridge?
Ham soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before refrigerating. If you have added dairy or cream to the soup, it might separate slightly when reheated, but it will still be delicious.
7. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. You can add vegetables like green beans, corn, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you add.
Ham soup is one of those recipes that gets better with time, making it perfect for leftovers. With its rich, savory broth, tender vegetables, and smoky ham, it’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Whether you’re using up leftover ham or making it fresh, this soup is a timeless comfort food that will surely warm your soul.
Enjoy making and sharing this ultimate ham soup with those you love!
إرسال تعليق