This recipe takes humble potatoes and transforms them into a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying ham bone potato soup. Using a ham bone adds incredible depth of flavor, making this soup a true comfort food masterpiece. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a large pot of deliciousness, perfect for sharing (or enjoying all by yourself!).
What are the benefits of using a ham bone in potato soup?
Using a ham bone is the secret ingredient to elevating this potato soup above the ordinary. The bone imparts a rich, savory flavor that permeates the entire soup. The collagen in the bone melts down, creating a naturally creamy texture that requires less added cream or milk. This makes the soup both more flavorful and healthier.
How long does it take to make ham bone potato soup?
This recipe requires approximately 2 hours of cooking time, but much of that is hands-off simmering. Preparation time is about 20 minutes. The longer the ham bone simmers, the more flavor will infuse into the soup.
What ingredients do I need for ham bone potato soup?
This recipe relies on simple, readily available ingredients. You will need:
- 1 ham bone (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How do I make ham bone potato soup?
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Prepare the ham bone: If your ham bone is very large, you might want to break it in half to fit your pot more easily.
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the ham bone and broth: Add the ham bone, chicken broth (or water), thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, allowing the ham bone to release its flavor.
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Add the potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20-30 minutes.
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Remove the ham bone: Carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. You can shred any remaining meat from the bone and add it back to the soup for extra protein.
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Blend (optional): For a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender to achieve the desired consistency. Always vent a blender when blending hot liquids.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the heavy cream or milk (if using). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I add to my ham bone potato soup?
Feel free to customize this recipe! Here are some ideas:
- Other vegetables: Add diced leeks, parsnips, or turnips for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as bay leaf, garlic powder, or paprika.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream adds a nice touch.
Is ham bone potato soup healthy?
This soup is a relatively healthy option, particularly if you use chicken broth instead of water and don't add excessive cream. Potatoes are a good source of potassium, and the vegetables provide vitamins and fiber. However, remember to consume it in moderation as it is still a relatively calorie-dense dish.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting homemade ham bone potato soup!
