This hearty ham, potato, and broccoli soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s a delicious way to use leftover ham, transforming it into a satisfying and flavorful meal. This recipe is easy to follow, adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let's dive into the details!
What Makes This Ham, Potato, and Broccoli Soup So Special?
This soup isn't just about throwing ingredients into a pot; it's about building layers of flavor. The ham provides a salty, savory base, while the potatoes offer a creamy texture and subtle sweetness. The broccoli adds a vibrant green color, a healthy dose of vitamins, and a slightly peppery bite. The combination is simply irresistible!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Incorporate Broccoli and Ham: Stir in the broccoli florets and cooked ham. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
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Blend (Optional): For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.
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Stir in Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use leftover ham bone?
Absolutely! A ham bone adds incredible depth of flavor to the soup. Simmer the bone in the chicken broth for at least 30 minutes before adding the other ingredients. Remove the bone before blending (if blending).
What other vegetables can I add?
This soup is very versatile! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans. Just be sure to add them at the appropriate time, considering their cooking times.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir constantly until thickened. Alternatively, you can use a roux (butter and flour cooked together) for a richer, thicker consistency.
Tips for the Best Ham, Potato, and Broccoli Soup:
- Use high-quality ham: The flavor of the ham will significantly impact the overall taste of the soup.
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
This delicious and satisfying ham, potato, and broccoli soup is a perfect weeknight meal or a comforting choice for a chilly day. Enjoy!
