Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Introduction:

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, hearty flavors of ham with the creaminess of potatoes and a medley of vegetables.

Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a warm, comforting meal, this soup is easy to make and full of nourishing ingredients.

It’s a classic recipe that’s been loved for generations and continues to be a family favorite.

Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or want to prepare a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy, this ham and potato soup is a delicious choice.

Ingredients:

3 1/2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced

3 1/4 cups water

1/3 cup carrots, chopped

1/3 cup celery, diced

1/3 cup onion, finely chopped

3/4 cup cooked ham, diced

2 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules

1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon ground white or black pepper, or to taste

5 tablespoons butter

5 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

Instructions:

1. Boil the Vegetables and Ham:

Combine Ingredients: In a large stockpot, add the diced potatoes, water, chopped carrots, diced celery, finely chopped onion, and diced ham.

Bring to Boil: Heat the mixture over high heat and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low.

Simmer: Let the vegetables and ham simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender.

2. Season the Soup:

Add Seasonings: Stir in the chicken bouillon granules, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the soup.

3. Prepare the Roux (Thickening Paste):

Melt the Butter: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.

Make the Roux: Add the flour to the melted butter and stir continuously until the mixture forms a thick paste. This should take about 1 minute.

4. Thicken the Soup:

Combine Roux and Soup: Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, forming a creamy base.

Add to Stockpot: Pour the thickened milk mixture into the stockpot with the vegetables and ham. Stir for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken to your desired consistency.

5. Garnish and Serve:

Transfer to Bowls: Ladle the hot soup into bowls.

Optional Garnishes: Top the soup with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, croutons, bacon bits, or chopped parsley.

Serve: Enjoy the soup warm, being careful not to burn your tongue!

Conclusion:

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that warms the heart and soul.

It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like potatoes, ham, and vegetables, making it both nutritious and comforting.

The creamy texture and rich flavor make this soup a perfect choice for any meal, whether you’re serving it as a starter or the main course.

The leftovers store well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. With this easy recipe, you can create a delicious, homemade soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.