Ham soup is a comforting classic, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend brunch. This recipe guides you through making a flavorful and satisfying ham soup, perfect for using up leftover ham bone and showcasing its rich savory depth. We'll cover everything from selecting the right ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of flavors.
What kind of ham is best for ham soup?
The best ham for soup is usually a bone-in ham, either a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires cooking). A bone-in ham provides the most flavor as the bone releases collagen and marrow into the broth, enriching it significantly. While you can use leftover cooked ham, the bone will dramatically improve the soup's depth. Avoid using pre-sliced, packaged ham as it tends to be drier and less flavorful.
What vegetables go well in ham soup?
The beauty of ham soup lies in its versatility. Many vegetables complement the ham's savory notes perfectly. Classic choices include:
- Carrots: Add sweetness and a vibrant color.
- Celery: Provides a subtle earthy flavor and texture.
- Onion: Forms the base for the soup's flavor profile.
- Potatoes: Contribute heartiness and creaminess.
- Green beans or peas: Add freshness and a touch of sweetness.
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale): Contribute nutrients and a deep green hue.
How long should ham soup simmer?
Simmering is crucial for developing the ham soup's rich flavor. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes. Aim for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors of the ham bone and vegetables to meld together. A longer simmer time of 3-4 hours will result in an even more intense, deeply flavorful soup. Remember to keep the soup at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to prevent the ham from becoming tough or the vegetables from falling apart.
Can you freeze ham soup?
Yes, ham soup freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How do you make ham bone broth for soup?
Making a flavorful ham bone broth is the foundation of a great ham soup. Here's how:
- Roast the bone (optional): Roasting the ham bone enhances its flavor. Place the bone in a roasting pan and roast at 375°F (190°C) for 30-45 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Combine ingredients: Place the roasted (or unroasted) ham bone in a large stockpot. Add cold water to cover the bone by a couple of inches. Add roughly chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or even longer for a richer broth.
- Strain: Once simmered, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the bone and vegetables. This broth forms the base for your ham soup.
Recipe for Simple Ham Soup
This recipe uses the ham bone broth as a base:
Ingredients:
- 8 cups ham bone broth (see instructions above)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the ham bone broth, diced ham, potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
This detailed guide provides a comprehensive understanding of how to make delicious ham soup. Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking and experiment with different vegetables for a unique twist! Enjoy!
