Cozy Ham Soup Recipe: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish

The aroma of simmering ham soup wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in warmth like a cozy blanket. The rich, savory broth mingles with tender chunks of ham and hearty vegetables, creating a flavor experience that dances on your palate. sweet potato vegetable soup. For more inspiration, check out this sausage and vegetable soup recipe.

I remember the first time I made this ham soup recipe; my family gathered around the table, their faces lighting up with joy. hearty taco soup recipe It’s perfect for chilly evenings, where each spoonful comforts and delights, promising an unforgettable moment.

I’ll never forget the time my best friend came over for dinner and couldn’t stop raving about this ham soup. She even asked for the recipe to impress her family!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cooked Ham: Use leftover ham or store-bought; it’s key for flavor richness.

• Carrots: Fresh, crunchy carrots add sweetness and color to the soup.

• Celery: Chopped celery provides a nice crunch and aromatic base.

• Onions: Diced onions create a flavorful foundation with their natural sweetness.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the flavor profile with aromatic goodness.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.

• Dried Thyme: This herb infuses the soup with earthy flavors; fresh thyme works too!

• Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves add depth to your savory broth.

• Potatoes: Diced potatoes provide heartiness and soak up all those delicious flavors.

• Pepper and Salt: Adjust these seasonings to suit your taste preferences perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Gather Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients so you can work efficiently without running around like a headless chicken. Chop the vegetables and cube the ham into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté the diced onions until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma. Follow this with minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant.

Add Vegetables

Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes into your pot. Stir everything together as they mingle happily for a few minutes; this enhances their flavors beautifully as they begin to soften.

Pour in Broth

Now it’s time to pour in that glorious chicken broth! Add enough to cover all those vibrant veggies comfortably. Toss in dried thyme and bay leaves, letting them infuse their magic into your soup.

Bring to a Boil

Bring your soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once bubbling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until all ingredients are tender.

Season & Serve

Finally, remove bay leaves, season with salt and pepper to taste, and ladle into bowls. Enjoy this comforting ham soup while it’s hot—perfectly paired with crusty bread for dipping!

This ham soup recipe is not just about nourishment; it’s about creating memories filled with laughter and warmth at home. roasted garlic tomato soup Each bowlful tells a story of comfort food that brings loved ones together around the table! slow cooker pot roast.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced ham to brown it. Pour in the broth and veggies, letting everything simmer for optimal flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like spinach or kale. You can also toss in some herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store your ham soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Cooking this ham soup has become a family favorite, especially when my grandma shares her secret ingredient: a dash of love!

FAQ

Can I use smoked ham for this soup?

Absolutely! Smoked ham adds a nice depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.

What if I don’t have vegetable broth?

Chicken broth works perfectly as an alternative without sacrificing flavor in your ham soup recipe. For more inspiration, check out this beef macaroni soup recipe recipe.

Can I freeze leftovers of the ham soup?

Yes, freeze in portions for easy reheating later, ensuring you enjoy this comforting meal anytime!