Ham And Potato Soup Recipe

As the days grow colder and the craving for comfort food increases, there's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of ham and potato soup to soothe your soul. This rich, creamy, and flavorful dish is a fantastic choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together. Whether you're an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of making the perfect ham and potato soup. Read on to discover all the secrets to mastering this classic comfort dish!

this Recipe

What is Ham and Potato Soup?

Ham and potato soup is a rich, creamy dish made from a combination of diced potatoes, succulent ham, and a flavorful broth. With its savory ingredients and thick, comforting texture, this soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, and the basic ingredients can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight meal or something special for the weekend, this soup has got you covered.

Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup

The beauty of ham and potato soup lies in its simplicity. The following ingredients combine to create a delicious, filling dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds:

• 2 cups diced cooked ham: Use leftover ham from a holiday meal or store-bought ham for convenience.
• 4 cups diced potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, as they give the soup a nice creamy texture.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a mild, sweet flavor to the soup.
• 2 carrots, diced: For a touch of sweetness and color.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds a slight crunch and depth of flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth: This is the base of the soup and infuses it with rich flavor.
• 2 cups milk: Creates the creamy texture that ham and potato soup is known for.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Helps sauté the vegetables and adds a rich flavor to the soup.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the soup to a desirable consistency.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season according to your preference.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the soup with a slight herby flavor.

Ingredients List for Optional Additions

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are several optional ingredients you can add to personalize your ham and potato soup. Here are some ideas:

• Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for an extra creamy, cheesy finish.
• Bacon: Crumble cooked bacon on top for added texture and smoky flavor.
• Corn: Add a cup of sweet corn kernels for a bit of sweetness and crunch.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream can add tang and richness to the soup.
• Green onions: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about ham and potato soup is its adaptability. If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand or want to try a different twist, here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:

• Ham: If you don’t have ham, substitute it with cooked bacon, pancetta, or even leftover chicken or turkey.
• Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or cauliflower can be used in place of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Milk: If you’re lactose-intolerant or prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or another plant-based alternative.
• Broth: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the ham for a flavorful potato and veggie soup.
• Spices: Customize the soup’s flavor by adding herbs like rosemary or bay leaves. You could also spice things up with a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This ham and potato soup recipe is easy to follow, and the process can be broken down into a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Begin by dicing the ham, potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery. Set everything aside so it's ready to add when needed.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
3. Add flour to make a roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Add the broth and potatoes: Gradually stir in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add the ham and milk: Stir in the diced ham and milk. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Season and adjust consistency: Season the soup with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
7. Final simmer: Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure everything is well incorporated and heated through.

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

Making ham and potato soup is a straightforward process. Here’s a recap of the key steps to ensure success:

1. Sauté your vegetables in butter to develop flavor.
2. Create a roux by adding flour, which thickens the soup.
3. Add broth and potatoes, allowing them to cook until tender.
4. Incorporate ham and milk, and adjust seasoning and consistency.
5. Simmer until the soup reaches your desired thickness and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While ham and potato soup is relatively easy to make, a few common mistakes could impact the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overcooking the potatoes: If the potatoes cook for too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove the soup from heat once they’re tender.
• Skipping the roux: The flour and butter mixture (roux) is essential for thickening the soup. Don’t skip this step, or your soup may end up too watery.
• Adding too much salt too early: Ham can be salty, so wait until the soup has finished cooking before adjusting the seasoning to avoid an overly salty soup.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A bowl of ham and potato soup is satisfying on its own, but the presentation can elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving ideas:

• Top with garnishes: A sprinkle of shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon adds flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve with bread: Pair the soup with a crusty loaf of bread or garlic toast for dipping.
• Use stylish bowls: Serve the soup in rustic or colorful bowls for an eye-catching presentation.

How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and potato soup is best served piping hot, straight from the pot. Ladle it into bowls, and offer your guests toppings like shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream. This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, cornbread, or biscuits.

Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

For a more polished presentation, consider serving the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. Garnish the top with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or crispy bacon bits. The contrast of textures and colors will make your soup look as delicious as it tastes.

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your ham and potato soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Use leftover ham: This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover holiday ham.
• Don’t rush the cooking process: Allow the soup to simmer slowly to fully develop its flavors.
• Make it ahead: Ham and potato soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze ham and potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze ham and potato soup. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stovetop and add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

2. Can I use raw ham in the soup?
It’s best to use cooked ham in this recipe. If you only have raw ham, cook it separately before adding it to the soup.

3. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a little more flour to the roux.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply add all the ingredients (except the milk and flour) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the milk and flour in the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the soup.

Conclusion

Ham and potato soup is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always hits the spot. Whether you’re using leftovers or fresh ingredients, this hearty soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it with a side of crusty bread, garnish it to your heart’s content, and enjoy a bowl of warm, creamy goodness. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon have a go-to dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Print