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Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Recipe: Creamy and Delicious

creamy ham potato soup

To make a creamy and delicious crockpot ham and potato soup, start with quality ham and creamy russet or Yukon gold potatoes. Dice ham and cube potatoes, then add them to your crockpot with onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and your choice of chicken or vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours for a rich, flavorful soup. Serve it hot with crusty bread or salad for a complete meal, and enjoy the high protein, low-calorie benefits. Discover how this soup can transform your meal routine.

Key Soup Components

When you're preparing a delicious crockpot ham and potato soup, understanding the key components is vital.

Start by choosing the right potatoes; russet or Yukon gold work best for their creamy texture. Fresh vegetables are essential for flavor depth, so add carrots, celery, and onions.

Don't forget the broth—either chicken or vegetable broth provides a robust base.

Here's a simple list to guide you:

These components guarantee your soup is savory and satisfying, making it a perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly day.

Ham Quality Impacts Flavor

When you're making ham and potato soup, the quality of ham you choose directly affects its flavor.

Opt for premium cuts and explore flavorful varieties like smoked or honey-glazed to enhance your soup.

Remember to balance saltiness levels to guarantee a deliciously harmonious dish.

Selecting Premium Ham

To truly elevate the flavor of your crockpot ham and potato soup, it's important to select premium ham.

Begin by looking for ham with a deep pink color, indicating freshness. Avoid hams with an overly processed, pale appearance, as they might lack flavor. Check the label for minimal additives and preservatives, promoting a more natural taste.

Opt for bone-in ham when possible, as the bone enriches the soup's flavor during cooking.

Next, assess the ham's texture. It should feel firm to the touch, not slimy or sticky. This firmness suggests a well-cured product.

Don't forget to check for marbling, as fat interspersed throughout the meat adds richness and depth to your dish.

Selecting a premium ham guarantees a soup that's both creamy and delicious.

Flavorful Ham Varieties

Choosing the right variety of ham can make all the difference in your soup's flavor profile. You want to take into account options that complement the creamy texture of your crockpot soup.

Smoky hams, like those from the Black Forest or Virginia, add a rich depth that pairs beautifully with potatoes. If you prefer a sweeter note, honey or maple glazed hams infuse a subtle sweetness that balances well with savory ingredients.

For a more robust taste, try a country ham, known for its intense, cured flavor. Don't overlook spiral-cut hams; they're convenient and guarantee even flavor distribution throughout the soup.

Balancing Saltiness Levels

Balancing the saltiness in your ham and potato soup is essential for achieving a harmonious flavor.

Start by choosing a quality ham, as its saltiness varies greatly. If your ham tastes particularly salty, rinse it under cold water before adding it to the crockpot. This simple step can prevent overpowering your soup.

As you cook, taste the soup periodically. If it seems too salty, you can add more potatoes or a splash of cream to balance it out. These ingredients are excellent for absorbing excess saltiness.

Avoid adding additional salt until the very end, once all other flavors have melded.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing a warm and comforting crockpot ham and potato soup is simple and rewarding. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious meal for your family or guests.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients and Tools****

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

Step 3: Add the Liquid Ingredients****

Step 4: Season the Soup****

Step 5: Set the Crockpot****

Step 6: Add Cream and Thicken****

Step 7: Final Taste Test****

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy****

Chop Vegetables Finely

When it comes to chopping vegetables finely for your ham and potato soup, precision is key to achieving the perfect texture.

Start by selecting fresh onions, celery, and carrots, as they form the soup's aromatic base. Use a sharp chef's knife for clean cuts—dull knives can crush instead of slice.

Dice onions into small, even pieces; this helps them melt seamlessly into the broth. For celery, slice thinly across the ribs to maintain crunch without overpowering.

Carrots should be peeled and chopped into small cubes, guaranteeing they cook evenly. Keep your fingers tucked in, using a claw grip for safety.

Consistent sizes guarantee even cooking, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every spoonful of your delicious soup.

Slow Simmer for Rich Flavor

A symphony of flavors awaits as you begin the slow simmer process for your ham and potato soup. Set your crockpot to low, allowing the ingredients to meld over several hours. This gentle heat lets the flavors deepen, creating a rich, hearty base.

Add your chopped vegetables, ham, and spices to the pot. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover them completely. Stir everything gently, ensuring even distribution. Cover the crockpot with the lid, and let the magic happen over the next 6-8 hours.

Resist the temptation to lift the lid, as this releases precious steam and slows down cooking. Patience is key.

As the hours pass, your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma, promising a creamy, delicious soup.

Calorie and Protein Content

With each serving of this hearty ham and potato soup, you'll enjoy a satisfying balance of calories and protein. This comforting dish offers you the warmth of a home-cooked meal without overloading your diet. A typical serving size provides just the right amount of energy to keep you going throughout the day, while the protein content supports muscle maintenance and growth.

Here's a quick breakdown:

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 300 kcal
Protein 20 grams

These values make it an excellent choice for a nourishing meal. You can savor the rich flavors without worrying about excess calories. Plus, the protein from the ham and potatoes guarantees you're getting the nutrients you need. Enjoy your meal and feel great!

Conclusion

You've now mastered the art of crafting a crockpot ham and potato soup that's so creamy and delicious, it could make a gourmet chef weep with envy. By choosing quality ham and following these simple steps, you've created a masterpiece that's not only flavorful but also packed with the protein you need. So, grab a bowl, plunge in, and savor every spoonful of this comforting, heartwarming soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.

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