Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe - Hearty & Delicious | USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Ham and Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with chunks of ham, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy broth that will warm you up from the inside out.

History

Ham and Potato Soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the United States, where it was a popular way to use up leftover ham from holiday meals. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and seasonings, but the basic concept of a creamy soup with ham and potatoes remains the same.

Ingredients

0.25 cup butter
1 chopped garlic clove
0.5 chopped onion
1 lb (454 g) chopped ham
0.5 cup flour
3 cup chicken broth
4 cup peeled diced potatoes
2 tsp black pepper
2 cup heavy cream or half and half
12 oz (340 g) cubed velveeta
1 cup shredded cheddar

How to prepare

Melt the butter and sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until they become clear.
Add the ham and continue sautéing, stirring frequently.
Add the flour and stir until it is well blended.
Pour in the chicken broth and continue stirring over heat until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
Add the potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer until the potatoes become tender, which should take about 20 minutes.
Season with pepper to taste, then add the half and half and cheese.
Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
Use different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Swiss, for a different flavor.
Add a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a bit of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions and garlic until they are translucent to develop their flavor.

- Use a good quality ham for the best flavor in this soup.

- For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork before serving.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more pepper or salt if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham and Potato Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to prevent the dairy from curdling.

- Stir the soup frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use bacon or smoked sausage instead of ham.

- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Make Ahead Tips

Ham and Potato Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Ham and Potato Soup with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a light beer, such as a pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to thin the soup if needed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Potato Soup contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Potato Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham and Potato Soup contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham and Potato Soup contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and Potato Soup is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, half and half, cheese) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Ham and Potato Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Potato Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy broth, tender potatoes, and chunks of ham, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for tea. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, she brought out a steaming pot of Ham and Potato Soup. The aroma that wafted from the pot was simply irresistible, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

Margaret smiled as she ladled the soup into bowls, telling me about how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother many years ago. She explained how the soup was a family favorite, especially on cold nights when a warm, comforting meal was just what was needed.

As I took my first spoonful of the soup, I knew that I had to get the recipe from Margaret. The rich, hearty broth was filled with chunks of tender ham, creamy potatoes, and just the right amount of seasonings. It was a perfect balance of flavors, and I knew that it would become a staple in my own kitchen.

After finishing our meal, Margaret graciously shared her recipe with me. She explained each step in detail, from how to brown the ham to how to simmer the potatoes until they were tender. She shared tips and tricks that she had learned over the years, such as how to season the soup just right and how to adjust the thickness to your liking.

I couldn't wait to try making the soup for myself. I gathered all the ingredients the next day and set to work in my own kitchen. As the soup simmered on the stove, the familiar aroma filled the air, bringing back memories of that cozy evening at Margaret's house.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and sat down to enjoy it. The flavors were just as delicious as I remembered, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had made this comforting dish from scratch.

Over the years, I have made Ham and Potato Soup countless times. It has become a favorite in my own family, just as it was in Margaret's. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing down the tradition of this delicious soup from generation to generation.

Each time I make the soup, I think of Margaret and her grandmother, and I am grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has brought warmth and comfort to my home, just as it did to theirs so many years ago.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Ham and Potato Soup on a chilly evening, I am reminded of the power of a good recipe. It has the ability to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am truly grateful.