Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound country ham, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the diced country ham until crispy. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender.
4. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the soup until smooth.
5. In a separate pan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light brown color.
6. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens.
7. Add the roux mixture to the soup and stir until well combined.
8. Add the crispy country ham back to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot with chopped fresh parsley as garnish.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer on low heat
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Bacon or pancetta can be substituted for country ham
- Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth
- Half and half can be substituted for heavy cream
Variations:
- Add chopped carrots and celery for extra vegetables
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor
- Add a can of corn for a pop of sweetness and texture
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to dice the potatoes into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending and less mess
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in a rustic bowl with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Pairings:
Crusty bread or a side salad
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or a side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the soup to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Country ham and potato soup is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, salty, and creamy
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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