Hot Ham Vegetable Soup (Print-Friendly Version)

Hearty bowl with savory ham, vegetables, and herbs simmered in rich broth for comforting flavor.

# Ingredients List:

→ Soup Base

01 - 2 cups cooked ham, diced
02 - 2 carrots, sliced
03 - 2 celery stalks, diced
04 - 1 medium onion, chopped
05 - 3 to 4 medium potatoes, diced
06 - 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
07 - 1 bay leaf
08 - Salt, to taste
09 - Black pepper, to taste
10 - 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
11 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
12 - 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme

→ Optional Additions

13 - A splash of cream
14 - Corn
15 - Peas
16 - Spinach
17 - Fresh parsley, for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - Dice the cooked ham, slice the carrots, dice the celery stalks and potatoes, and chop the onion evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
02 - Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat until melted and just sizzling. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
03 - Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham. Continue cooking for 1 minute to develop flavor.
04 - Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the diced potatoes, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
05 - Increase the heat to bring the contents to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and allow the soup to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs as desired. For extra richness, incorporate a splash of cream if using.
07 - Remove the bay leaf. Allow the soup to rest for 1 minute off the heat, then ladle into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by bread or biscuits.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Leftover ham or ham hock imparts additional depth of flavor, while store-bought diced ham offers convenience. Customize the vegetable medley with peas, corn, spinach, or green beans according to taste.