Is there anything more comforting than a steaming bowl of Ham Bone Soup on a frosty winter day? The rich, savory aroma fills the house like a warm hug, bringing everyone together. This dish makes great use of leftover ham bones, turning simple ingredients into something magical. Let us dive into this culinary adventure and discover what makes this soup a star.
There is a unique charm in taking simple ham bone soup and turning it into a feast. The ham bone is a treasure, packed with flavor that enriches every drop of broth. The potatoes soak up goodness, becoming soft and delightful. This soup is not just food – it’s an experience that brings back cherished memories and creates new ones. Imagine loved ones gathered, everyone savoring that hearty goodness in each spoonful. That is the magic of this soup!
I discovered this comforting dish in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where every meal felt like a celebration. She had a talent for using every leftover, teaching me what to do with leftover ham. Her ham and potato soup was legendary – full of flavors and heart. I can still hear the bubbling pot, and smell the aroma filling the air, feeling the immense warmth only home cooking can offer. It is not just a meal; it is a nostalgic journey back to simpler times.
Now, you might wonder if ham and potato soup can be healthier. The answer is yes, absolutely! The traditional recipe is indulgent, but you can adjust it for various dietary needs without losing taste.
With these changes, the soup keeps its charm while also catering to diverse preferences.
Let us break down the main ingredients in this flavorful dish:
Each ingredient in the ham soup base plays a vital role in building flavor and adding nutritional value, making it both tasty and wholesome.
Preparing this soup is as heartwarming as the result. Here is a simple guide on how to make ham potato soup that you will love sharing with friends and family.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot and sautéing the chopped onions, parsnips, and celery until tender. Next, stir in the minced garlic for a burst of flavor. Once that’s done, add in a ham bone, low-sodium chicken stock, bay leaves, and thyme to create a rich broth. After simmering, add the diced potatoes and allow them to cook through. Remove the ham bone and purée half the soup for creaminess, then stir in the chopped ham and whipping cream. In no time, you will have a comforting bowl of soup that feels like home.
There you have it! A soul-soothing Ham Bone Soup that is sure to impress. Whether sharing with family or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this dish will fill your home with warmth and your heart with joy. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!
To make the Ham Bone Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil. Add 1 ½ cups chopped onions, ¾ cup chopped parsnips or carrots, and ¾ cup chopped celery and sauté for 7 to 8 minutes.
Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook for 1 minute.
Add the ham bone or ham shank to the pot. Pour in 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock. Add 2 bay leaves and 2 sprigs thyme.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cover and let simmer for 45 minutes.
Add the potatoes and simmer until cooked through, for 15 minutes.
Remove the ham bone or ham shank from the soup. Purée half of the soup to create a creamy base while leaving some whole potato chunks for texture.
If you are using a ham shank, remove the meat and chop it into ¾-inch cubes. Add the chopped ham and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper to the soup.
Stir in ¼ cup heavy whipping cream. Taste and season with salt and black pepper if needed.
Serve hot.
Ham Bone Soup is the perfect dish for those chilly days when you crave something hearty and comforting. Packed with rich flavors from the ham bone and hearty vegetables, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ll have a warm meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Made it? Let us know! Tag @cookmerecipes on Instagram and hashtag it #cookmerecipes.
Delicious cozy dinner for whole family!
