Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a soul-warming dish that combines the smoky goodness of ham with tender chunks of potatoes in a rich and velvety soup base. This comforting recipe is perfect for cold winter days, as it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. In this detailed recipe, we’ll walk you through the process of creating this delicious soup, complete with all the steps to make it a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 cups diced ham (cooked and smoked)
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated cheddar cheese
- Crumbled bacon bits
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
Instructions: - Preparing the Soup Base:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Create a Roux:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir well to combine and cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the roux to thicken slightly. This will help give the soup a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate the Ham:
- Add the diced ham to the pot and stir to combine it with the roux and aromatic mixture. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavor of the ham.
- Add Dried Herbs and Seasoning:
- Introduce the dried thyme, dried rosemary, black pepper, and a pinch of salt to the pot. Stir to release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in Broth and Milk:
- Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, whole milk, and heavy cream to the pot, stirring continuously to create a smooth mixture.
- Incorporate Potatoes:
- Gently stir in the peeled and diced russet potatoes. This is the heart of your creamy ham and potato soup.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check for seasoning adjustments.
- Building the Soup:
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the corn kernels, chopped celery, and chopped carrots. This will add sweetness and a pop of color to your soup.
- Simmer Again:
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
- Season to Taste:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if needed.
- Serving and Optional Garnish:
- Serving the Soup:
- Ladle the hot and creamy Creamy Ham and Potato Soup into serving bowls.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley, grated cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon bits for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Enjoy with Bread:
- Serve your soup with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Conclusion:
- Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a delicious and filling soup that combines the savory goodness of ham with tender chunks of potatoes in a rich and velvety base. This recipe is an excellent way to create a comforting meal that’s both flavorful and hearty. Whether you’re making it to warm up on a chilly day or as a family meal, this detailed recipe ensures you can prepare a Creamy Ham and Potato Soup that’s both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy the rich flavors and warmth of this delightful soup!
