Are you craving a hearty, nutritious soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day? Look no further! This Healthy Ham and Potato Soup is not just another recipe - it's a game-changing meal that combines classic comfort food with smart, nutritious ingredients. Packed with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy broth, this soup is about to become your new go-to recipe for satisfying hunger and delighting taste buds in under an hour!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and dicing the onion, carrots, and potatoes into uniform small cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and carrots, allowing them to start softening and absorbing the flavors.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring all vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add the diced ham to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the ham to warm through and release its flavors into the soup.
- Slowly stir in the milk, creating a creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Simmer for a final 3-5 minutes to blend all flavors and ensure the soup is heated thoroughly.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to slightly thicken.
- Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Tips
- Dice ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the soup.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and make the recipe healthier.
- For extra flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a pinch of dried thyme.
- Don't rush the simmering process - letting the soup cook slowly helps develop deeper flavors.
- If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth; if too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Use fresh herbs as a garnish to add brightness and a pop of color to your finished dish.
- This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg
