Ham shank soup is a comforting classic, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. This recipe focuses on building deep, savory flavors through slow cooking and careful ingredient selection. We'll explore techniques to maximize the ham's flavor and create a broth that's both rich and nuanced. Get ready to experience ham shank soup elevated!
What is a Ham Shank?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's clarify what a ham shank is. A ham shank is the lower leg portion of a cured ham. It's a bone-in cut, typically featuring a generous amount of meat, along with connective tissue and bone marrow, which contribute significantly to the richness and depth of flavor in the soup.
Ingredients for Unforgettable Ham Shank Soup
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 (4-5 pound) smoked ham shank: Look for a good quality ham shank with a nice smoky aroma.
- 12 cups water: Use cold water to start.
- 2 large onions, roughly chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 4 carrots, roughly chopped: Provides a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 4 celery stalks, roughly chopped: Adds a subtle earthy flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes.
- 2 bay leaves: Adds a subtle herbal complexity.
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns: For a warm, peppery kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal aroma.
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: For garnish (optional)
- Salt to taste: Adjust according to your preference.
Instructions: Crafting Your Culinary Masterpiece
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Prepare the Ham Shank: Rinse the ham shank under cold water. If it has a very thick rind, you can score it to help it render better during cooking.
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Simmer the Broth: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the ham shank, water, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 3-4 hours, or until the ham is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
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Skim the Broth (Important!): As the soup simmers, you'll notice impurities rising to the surface. Regularly skim off any foam or fat that accumulates. This step is crucial for achieving a clear and flavorful broth.
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Shred the Ham: Once the ham is tender, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat from the bone, discarding the bone and any excess fat.
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Strain and Season: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot. Discard the solids. Taste the broth and season with salt to your liking. You can add a pinch of salt at a time, tasting as you go to avoid over-salting.
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Combine and Heat: Return the shredded ham to the pot and heat through. Do not boil the soup at this point; simply heat it until it's warmed through.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping – the perfect way to soak up all that delicious broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to cook ham shank soup?
Cooking time depends on the size of your ham shank. Generally, you should simmer the soup for at least 3-4 hours, or until the ham is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Larger ham shanks may require up to 6 hours.
Can I use a different type of ham?
While a smoked ham shank provides the best flavor profile for this soup, you can use other cuts of ham, such as a bone-in ham hock or even a smaller ham butt. Keep in mind that cooking times may need adjustments depending on the cut and size of the ham.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Follow the same preparation instructions, but transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours.
Can I freeze ham shank soup?
Yes, ham shank soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What are some variations on this recipe?
You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Consider adding other vegetables like potatoes, turnips, or parsnips. Adding a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar can also enhance the flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or chives before serving adds an extra layer of freshness.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade ham shank soup! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out.
