Say Goodbye to Ham Sandwich Ruts: Unlock the Secret to Making Enchanting Leftover Ham Soup

Leftover ham, a staple of holiday feasts, can often leave us wondering what to do with the remaining meat. But fear not! By following our simple steps, you can effortlessly turn that leftover ham into a delicious and comforting soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup chopped potatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ham and broth: Stir in the diced ham and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the peas and potatoes: Stir in the frozen peas and chopped potatoes. Continue simmering for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through.
5. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

Variations

• Creamy Ham Soup: Add 1 cup of milk or cream to the soup after it has finished simmering.
• Spicy Ham Soup: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Cheesy Ham Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.

Tips for the Best Soup

• Use high-quality ham for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
• Allow the soup to simmer for as long as possible to develop a rich flavor.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Leftover Ham Soup Benefits

• Versatile: This soup can be served as a meal on its own or as a starter or side dish.
• Budget-friendly: Using leftover ham helps save money and reduce food waste.
• Nutrient-rich: Ham soup is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• Comforting: The warm, savory flavors of this soup are perfect for a cold winter day.

Wrapping Up: A Culinary Transformation

With just a few simple steps, you can transform your leftover ham into a delicious and satisfying soup. Whether you want to enjoy it as a meal on its own or as a comforting addition to your dinner table, this leftover ham soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other vegetables in this soup?

A: Yes, you can add any vegetables you have on hand, such as green beans, corn, or bell peppers.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?

A: To thicken the soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water) or a roux (1 tablespoon butter mixed with 1 tablespoon flour).

Q: Can I freeze leftover ham soup?

A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.