Ham potato soup is the epitome of cozy comfort food. This creamy, flavorful soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying weekend lunch. This recipe goes beyond the basic, incorporating tips and tricks to elevate your ham potato soup to restaurant quality. Whether you're using leftover ham bone or a fresh ham steak, this recipe will guide you to deliciousness.
What Makes This Ham Potato Soup Recipe the Best?
This recipe stands out because it balances creamy richness with bright, fresh flavors. We'll focus on maximizing the ham flavor, achieving the perfect potato texture, and adding depth through carefully chosen aromatics. Forget bland, watery soup; this recipe promises a hearty, satisfying experience. We'll also address some common questions people have about making this classic dish.
What Kind of Ham Should I Use for Ham Potato Soup?
This is a common question, and the answer is flexible! You can use leftover cooked ham, a ham bone (for extra richness!), or even a few slices of fresh ham. Leftover ham bone is arguably the best option because it adds incredible depth of flavor. If using a bone, simmer it in the broth for maximum flavor extraction. For fresh ham, dice it into bite-sized pieces and add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming tough.
How Do I Make the Soup Creamy Without Cream?
Many people seek a creamy texture without using heavy cream. This is achievable! We achieve creaminess primarily through the potatoes themselves. By using starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds and allowing them to cook down until tender, you'll naturally create a thicker, creamier soup. You can further enhance the creaminess by using a potato masher or immersion blender to partially puree a portion of the soup, but this is entirely optional.
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! A slow cooker is an excellent tool for developing deep flavors in this soup. Simply sauté the aromatics (onions, carrots, celery) as directed in the recipe, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time will result in incredibly tender potatoes and a rich, flavorful broth. Remember to check the seasoning before serving and adjust as needed.
How Long Does Ham Potato Soup Last in the Refrigerator?
Properly stored in an airtight container, ham potato soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
What Vegetables Go Well With Ham Potato Soup?
Besides potatoes, carrots and celery are classic additions. However, don't be afraid to experiment! Adding diced leeks, finely chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), or even a touch of spinach towards the end of the cooking process can provide delightful variations in flavor and texture.
My Ham Potato Soup Is Too Thin, How Do I Thicken It?
If your soup is too thin, you have several options. A slurry of cornstarch or all-purpose flour mixed with cold water can be stirred into the soup and simmered for a few minutes to thicken it. Alternatively, you can add a spoonful of mashed potatoes or a roux (a mixture of butter and flour cooked together) to create a richer, thicker consistency.
The Recipe: Ultimate Ham Potato Soup
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or ham broth (using ham broth intensifies the ham flavor!)
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced (russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk for extra richness
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Stir in broth, potatoes, ham, thyme, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- If desired, use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially puree some of the soup for a creamier texture.
- Stir in heavy cream or milk (optional). Season with salt to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This recipe is a starting point; feel free to adjust seasonings and add your favorite vegetables to create your perfect bowl of ham potato soup. Enjoy!
