The aroma of a bubbling pot of ham bone soup wafts through the air, inviting you into a cozy kitchen where warmth and comfort reign supreme. Imagine savoring each spoonful, filled with tender chunks of ham, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth that warms your soul. another comforting soup option This ham bone soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and chilly evenings.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I use instead of ham bone?
- Can I freeze Ham Bone Soup?
- How long should I simmer the soup?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As you prepare this delightful dish, you’ll find that it’s perfect for those moments when you crave something hearty yet simple to make. perfect side dish for soup Whether it’s a snowy day or a casual dinner with friends, this soup guarantees to bring smiles and satisfied bellies. satisfying and hearty dish
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ham bone soup recipe is incredibly easy to whip up; it’s perfect for using leftover ham from holiday feasts
- The depth of flavor is unmatched, with every spoonful bursting with hearty goodness
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, this dish becomes a centerpiece at any meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your favorite veggies and spices!
Sharing this recipe with my friends usually results in rave reviews; they can’t get enough of its comforting flavors and heartiness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ham Bone: A meaty bone enhances the broth’s richness; use leftover bones from a holiday ham for maximum flavor. creative ways to use leftover ham.
- Onions: Choose sweet onions for a mild flavor; they caramelize beautifully in the soup. For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
- Carrots: Fresh, crunchy carrots add sweetness and color; chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Celery: Celery adds an aromatic base; opt for crisp stalks for the best texture.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavors; don’t skimp—add as much as your heart desires.
- Dried Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaves): These herbs infuse the soup with depth; dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while ensuring plenty of liquid for cooking.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper lends just the right amount of spice to each bowl.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until they’re ready to dive into the pot.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes should do it.
Add Vegetables: Toss in carrots and celery next. Stir occasionally until they soften slightly—this adds another layer of flavor to our already fragrant base.
Incorporate Garlic & Ham Bone: Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute before adding the ham bone. The smell will be heavenly as everything melds together.
Pour in Broth & Seasoning: Pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged. Add dried thyme, bay leaves, and freshly cracked black pepper—give it a good stir!
Bring to a Simmer: Increase heat until boiling; then reduce to low heat. Cover and let simmer for about 1-2 hours until flavors meld and meat falls off the bone effortlessly.
Remove Bone & Shred Ham: Carefully remove the ham bone once cooked. Let it cool slightly before pulling off any remaining meat—don’t waste that deliciousness!
Final Touches: Return shredded ham to the pot along with any additional seasoning needed. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired before serving up hot bowls of comfort!
There you have it—a warm bowl of homemade ham bone soup that wraps around you like your favorite blanket. Enjoy this dish on chilly nights or whenever comfort food calls your name!
You Must Know
- A Ham Bone Soup Recipe is a delightful way to use leftovers, packing in flavor and nutrition
- The aroma of simmering vegetables and savory ham fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere
- It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a hearty meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor, then add diced ham and vegetables before broth. Let it simmer happily until everything melds together perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or add beans for extra protein. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or bay leaves for unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use a bone with some meat still attached
- This adds richness to your soup
- Don’t rush the simmering; let flavors develop over at least an hour
- Lastly, taste before serving; a pinch of salt can elevate the dish!
Creating my first Ham Bone Soup was a revelation. Friends gathered around my kitchen, savoring every spoonful, and I realized how something so simple could spark such joy.
FAQ
What can I use instead of ham bone?
Try smoked turkey leg or leftover chicken bones for similar depth of flavor.
Can I freeze Ham Bone Soup?
Absolutely! It freezes well; just cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
How long should I simmer the soup?
Simmer for at least an hour, but longer enhances the flavors even more!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Hearty Ham Bone Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Warm your soul with this comforting Ham Bone Soup, a delightful blend of tender ham, fresh vegetables, and rich broth. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, this easy recipe transforms leftover holiday ham into a flavorful dish that everyone will love. Enjoy every spoonful as it brings back cherished memories of home and warmth.
Ingredients
- 1 ham bone (with some meat attached)
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 2 cups celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your counter.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add diced carrots and celery; stir occasionally until softened.
- Incorporate minced garlic and sauté for another minute before adding the ham bone.
- Pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged; add thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover; let simmer for 1-2 hours until flavors meld.
- Remove the ham bone, shred any remaining meat, and return to the pot. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
