Hot Ham Soup
A cozy, hearty soup featuring savory ham and vibrant vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
For the soup base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing and building flavor at the start.
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds a savory, sweet base to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic quality.
- 2 large carrots, sliced Their natural sweetness balances the smoky flavor of the ham.
- 2 stalks celery, diced Gives a nice crunch and depth to the texture.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use homemade for richer flavor or store-bought for convenience.
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced This is the star of the show; any leftover ham works perfectly.
- 1 cup potatoes, cubed Provides heartiness; you can swap for sweet potatoes for a sweeter option.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Offers a beautiful herbal note that enhances the overall flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toss in sliced carrots and diced celery. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, letting everything mingle and soften.
- Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add cubed potatoes and diced ham. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat and let your soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot.
Notes
Use leftover ham for this recipe. Don't rush the sauté to build flavor. Adjust for texture by adding more or less potatoes and ham.