why make this recipe
Hearty Ham Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It utilizes leftover ham, making it both economical and delicious. This soup is packed with vegetables and flavor, providing a satisfying meal for family and friends. It’s easy to make and can be a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week.
how to make Hearty Ham Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Directions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the ham, potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
how to serve Hearty Ham Soup
Serve Hearty Ham Soup hot in bowls. You can add some fresh bread or crispy croutons on the side for extra crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
how to store Hearty Ham Soup
To store the soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand as it freezes.
tips to make Hearty Ham Soup
- Chop all your vegetables to a uniform size for even cooking.
- Feel free to add other veggies like green beans or corn.
- Use different herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, to change the flavor.
- If you want a creamy version, you can add a splash of cream or milk before serving.
variation
If you want to make a smokier version of the soup, you can use smoked ham or add a little smoked paprika. For a spicy kick, consider including crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of ham?
Yes, leftover turkey works well in this soup too. Just follow the same recipe.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What can I do if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water. Just adjust the seasoning to taste, as the broth adds flavor.
Hearty Ham Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 leaf bay leaf
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the ham, potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.