Cold Day Comfort Food… Ham & Potato Soup — YES

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Cold Day Comfort Food… Ham & Potato Soup — YES! 🥔🥣

When the weather turns chilly and the air feels heavy with winter, nothing soothes the soul quite like a steaming bowl of Ham & Potato Soup. Rich, creamy, hearty, and deeply comforting, this classic soup wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the kitchen, asking, “Is it ready yet?”

Whether you’re using leftover ham from the holidays or starting fresh, this soup is a timeless favorite that never fails to satisfy.

🥣 Introduction

Ham & Potato Soup is the definition of comfort food. Simple ingredients, slow simmering, and bold, cozy flavors come together to create a meal that feels like home. It’s perfect for cold days, busy weeknights, or lazy weekends when you crave something filling and familiar.

🧾 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup carrots, diced (optional)
  • ½ cup celery, diced (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Thickening Base

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Sauté the Base
    In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 4–5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  2. Build the Flavor
    Add diced ham, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3–4 minutes to release flavors.
  3. Thicken
    Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Simmer
    Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring. Add potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  5. Creamy Finish
    Stir in milk and heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes. Add cheese if using and stir until melted.
  6. Taste & Serve
    Adjust seasoning, garnish, and serve hot.

🍲 Cooking Methods

Stovetop (Classic Method)

Best for flavor development and easy adjustments.

Slow Cooker

  • Add all ingredients except milk, cream, and cheese.
  • Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.
  • Stir in dairy during the last 30 minutes.

Instant Pot

  • Sauté onions, garlic, and ham.
  • Add remaining ingredients except dairy.
  • Pressure cook on HIGH for 8 minutes.
  • Stir in milk and cream after releasing pressure.

📜 History

Ham & Potato Soup has deep roots in European and American farmhouse cooking. Potatoes were inexpensive and filling, while ham—often cured and stored—was a staple protein through winter months. Families used every scrap, turning leftovers into nourishing meals that could feed many.

🧱 Formation (Why It Works)

  • Potatoes provide body and natural thickness
  • Ham adds saltiness and depth
  • Cream & milk bring richness
  • Slow simmering melds flavors into a velvety, satisfying soup

It’s simple food science paired with tradition.

❤️ Lovers of This Soup

  • Comfort food lovers
  • Busy families
  • Leftover-ham heroes
  • Cold-weather soup fans
  • Anyone who believes soup should feel like a hug

🧑‍🍳 Methods Loved by Fans

  • Extra chunky with big potato bites
  • Ultra-creamy and blended
  • Loaded with cheese and bacon
  • Served with crusty bread or biscuits

🥖 Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty artisan bread
  • Buttermilk biscuits
  • Simple green salad
  • Garlic toast

🌟 Conclusion

Ham & Potato Soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s a feeling. Warm, filling, nostalgic, and endlessly comforting. Whether you’re fighting the cold or simply craving something cozy, this soup always delivers.

So… Ham & Potato Soup on a cold day?
That’s a big YES. 🥣❄️

Drop your vote and enjoy every spoonful!

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