Every time I make this Holiday Ham Soup, my thoughts drift back to the warm gatherings around my kitchen table, where stories are shared, and laughter fills the air. Growing up, my family had a tradition of coming together during the holidays, and there was always a comforting pot of soup simmering on the stove. The smell alone brings back memories of those sweet moments, making my heart swell with nostalgia. There’s something about the combination of flavors in this hearty soup that makes it feel like home. When you try it, I just know you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort!
How to make Holiday Ham Soup
Ingredients:
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1 cup diced ham: This is the star ingredient! It brings a savory depth to the soup that will remind you of holiday feasts.
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2 cups potatoes, diced: Potatoes are the heartiness of this dish. They provide that satisfying texture and soak up all the delicious flavors!
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1 cup onions, chopped: Onions add a sweet and aromatic base; they’re essential for a good flavor foundation.
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1 cup carrots, sliced: These add a touch of sweetness and make the soup colorful and inviting.
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1 cup celery, chopped: Celery gives the soup crunch and freshness.
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4 cups chicken broth: This is what ties everything together and creates a lovely, comforting broth.
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1 cup heavy cream: Dreamy and rich, the heavy cream adds that velvety texture you’ll love.
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Salt and pepper to taste: A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing all the flavors.
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Optional: Herbs (like thyme or parsley): Fresh or dried, herbs can elevate your soup by adding a lovely aromatic quality that’s hard to resist!
Personal note: I love adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme. It makes the whole kitchen smell divine!
Cooking Steps
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by getting your pot nice and warm over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to your large pot. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. You want to sauté these until they’re softened and fragrant. This step creates a beautiful aroma that will have everyone gathering in the kitchen in no time!
2. Add the Ham and Potatoes
Once the aromatics are softened to perfection, it’s time to add in your diced ham and potatoes. Stir everything together, letting the ham get a little toasty. This is the moment where you can really start to see the soup’s character come alive!
3. Pour in the Chicken Broth
Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, and have that wonderful broth work its magic. Bring it to a lively boil—you want those flavors to mingle beautifully.
4. Reduce and Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer, gently bubbling away. This is where the magic happens! Don’t rush this step; let the soup cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. You’ll start to notice the lovely scents wafting through your home, and I promise, you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste!
5. Add the Cream and Season
Now, here comes the fun part: stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. This is where the soup transforms into a rich and luxurious delight. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking. You can also sprinkle in some fresh or dried herbs for an extra kick!
6. Final Simmer
Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, but keep an eye on it. You want it to heat through without boiling. This is the part where you can steal a taste—believe me, you’ll be glancing at the clock just waiting for it to cool enough to enjoy!
7. Serve and Enjoy
When the soup is ready, ladle it into warm bowls and gather your loved ones. Sprinkle a little more fresh herb on top if you like for that lovely presentation. Trust me, this soup is going to bring everyone to the table, and when they take that first warm spoonful, you’ll see smiles all around!
Why I Love Making This Dish
What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is. You can easily use leftover holiday ham, or even a store-bought rotisserie chicken if that’s what you have on hand. This recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and it has become a staple in my kitchen. It warms your heart and stomach! I love making it when the weather gets chilly, or when family visits for the holidays. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience to share!
What You’ll Need
A sturdy pot is key for this recipe. I always reach for my trusty Dutch oven; it holds the heat well and allows for even cooking. A good wooden spoon will help you incorporate all the ingredients with ease. If you have a ladle, that makes serving a breeze!
Tips for Perfect Results
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For an extra depth of flavor, try to use homemade chicken broth if you have time! It truly makes a difference.
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If you want a thicker soup, try mashing a portion of the potatoes with the back of a fork or a potato masher right in the pot.
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A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully—don’t skip it!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This soup is delightful all on its own, but you could serve it with some crusty garlic bread or fresh salad on the side. When I make this, I love pairing it with warm, buttery rolls. The combination is simply divine! You could even set up a cozy soup bar with toppings like shredded cheese, croutons, or freshly chopped parsley for everyone to customize their bowls!
Leftovers
Leftovers are a blessing with this soup! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, you can add a splash of broth or cream as you warm it up!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! You can switch it up with leftover turkey, chicken, or even bacon if you’re feeling adventurous. They’ll all bring a different yet delightful flavor.
Is this soup healthy?
It can be! With all the veggies and lean ham, it’s a nutritious option. You can swap heavy cream for light cream or milk to lighten it further if you prefer.
Can I freeze this soup?
I don’t usually recommend freezing it because the cream can change texture when thawed. But if you want to prepare ahead, just freeze the soup without cream and add that when reheating!
Conclusion
This Holiday Ham Soup has become more than just a recipe in my household; it’s created moments and memories that I treasure deeply. I hope you feel inspired to give it a try! The flavors are comforting, the process is simple, and the joy it brings is immeasurable. I can’t wait for you to experience it! When you serve this to your family and friends, I promise you they’ll be singing your praises, just like mine do every time! Let me know how it turns out for you, and enjoy every warm, delicious spoonful!