How To Make Ham Bone Soup Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that warms the heart and fills the belly. I remember the first time I made this soup. It was a chilly winter evening, and I had a leftover ham bone from a family gathering. I decided to turn that bone into something delicious, and what came out of it was pure magic. The flavors that developed while simmering were incredible, and it quickly became a family favorite.
The Joy of Using Leftovers
Using leftovers is not only economical but also a great way to reduce food waste. Ham bone soup is a perfect example of how you can turn something seemingly useless into a hearty meal. When you think about it, the ham bone is packed with flavor and nutrients. This soup gives you a chance to enjoy every part of that ham.
Ingredients for Ham Bone Soup
Here’s what you will need to make a delicious ham bone soup:
- 1 ham bone with some meat left on it
- 8 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups of diced potatoes
- 1 cup of chopped carrots
- 1 cup of chopped celery
- 1 cup of diced onion
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup of frozen peas or corn
How To Prepare The Ham Bone Soup
The first step in making ham bone soup is preparing the ham bone. If you have a leftover bone from a holiday ham, that’s perfect. Just trim off any excess meat and fat. If you don’t have leftover ham, you can buy a ham hock from your local grocery store.
Building the Base of the Soup
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and throw in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll know you are on the right track.
Adding the Ham Bone and Liquid
Once the vegetables are softened, it’s time to add the ham bone. Pour in the water or broth, making sure the bone is fully submerged. The broth will soak up all the flavors from the ham and vegetables. Add the bay leaf and thyme at this stage too.
Simmering the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavor it will develop. During this time, you can relax and enjoy the comforting smell wafting through your home.
Adding the Vegetables
After the soup has simmered for a while, it’s time to add the potatoes and any other vegetables you like. I often add peas or corn for a pop of color and sweetness. Let the soup simmer for another 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Tasting and Seasoning
Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to taste your soup. This is the fun part! You can adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you want a little kick, adding a dash of hot sauce can really elevate the flavors.
Removing the Ham Bone
Carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. Let it cool for a few minutes before you start picking off any remaining meat. This is where you can really add to the soup’s heartiness. Shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot.
Serving The Ham Bone Soup
Serve the ham bone soup hot in bowls. I love to garnish mine with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper. Pair it with some crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ham bone soup can last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags.
Making ham bone soup is not just about the food; it’s about creating memories. I often think back to those cozy evenings spent around the table with my family, enjoying a warm bowl of soup. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows you to get creative with the ingredients. You can add beans, lentils, or even different spices to make it your own.