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!