This ham and potato soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender potatoes and savory ham in a creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious soup!
Ingredients
– 2 cups diced ham
– 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh chives for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this ham and potato soup contains approximately: 350 calories, 18g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g protein. This is based on a serving size of 1 cup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. 3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. 4. Add diced carrots and cook for 5 minutes. 5. Incorporate the cubed potatoes and ham into the pot. 6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. 7. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. 8. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. 9. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes. 10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives. 
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the heavy cream with milk for a lighter version, or use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly. You can also add other vegetables like corn or peas for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This ham and potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a simple sandwich. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to leave out the cream before freezing to maintain texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not sautéing the onion and garlic properly can result in a bland flavor.
- Adding too much salt at once can make the soup overly salty.
- Not cutting the potatoes evenly may lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the simmering step can result in hard potatoes.
- Using old ham can affect the taste and quality of the soup.
Helpful Tips
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Consider adding a bay leaf for extra flavor during cooking.
- Garnish with additional herbs for a fresh finish.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.
FAQs
Can I make ham and potato soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when needed.
What type of ham is best for this soup?
Cooked ham or leftover holiday ham works best, as it adds rich flavor without requiring additional cooking.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh potatoes are ideal for this recipe, providing the best texture and flavor.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth, this ham and potato soup is naturally gluten-free.
How can I thicken the soup further?
You can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
This ham and potato soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its hearty ingredients and creamy texture, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy making this easy recipe at home and savor the flavors of a classic comfort food!
Ham And Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 medium potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add diced carrots and cook for 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the cubed potatoes and ham into the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives.
Nutrition
