Description
Hearty ham and potato soup delights diners with creamy comfort from classic kitchen traditions. Rich flavors meld perfectly, offering warm satisfaction for families gathering around dinner tables.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (600 g/21.2 oz) potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 1.5 cups (225 g/8 oz) cooked ham
- 3 cups (720 ml/24.4 fl oz) chicken broth
- 2 cups (480 ml/16.2 fl oz) milk
- 1 small onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 stalks celery
- ¼ cup (30 g/1 oz) all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsps unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup (60 g/2 oz) shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tbsps chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Veggie Foundation: Combine potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and chicken broth in a large pot. Bring to a vibrant boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer until potatoes soften, roughly 15-20 minutes.
- Roux Creation: In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour, stirring constantly to develop a golden, aerated texture without scorching. This process typically takes 1-2 minutes.
- Creamy Transformation: Slowly integrate milk into the roux, whisking vigorously to ensure a silky-smooth consistency. Pour the thickened cream base into the vegetable pot, blending thoroughly to create a unified, luxurious soup.
- Flavor Infusion: Introduce diced ham, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to the simmering mixture. Allow ingredients to harmonize, stirring occasionally, as the soup develops a rich, comforting depth of flavor.
- Finishing Touch: Remove from heat once the soup reaches a velvety consistency. Serve in warm bowls, garnishing with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. Pair with crusty bread or crisp crackers for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Prevent Lumpy Roux: Whisk continuously and keep heat moderate to avoid burning flour, ensuring a smooth base for the soup.
- Potato Perfection: Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized chunks to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
- Ham Selection Matters: Use high-quality, lean ham with minimal fat for a cleaner flavor and healthier soup option.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter to create a lactose-free version of the soup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg