Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Smithfield ham, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt, to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the diced Smithfield ham, chicken broth, potatoes, celery, onion, carrots, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
5. Add the cream mixture to the soup and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the soup has thickened.
6. Taste the soup and add salt, if needed.
7. Serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Simmer over low heat
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 289
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 1,650mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Smithfield ham, you can use any other type of ham or bacon.
- Instead of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or water.
- Instead of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or milk.
- Instead of cornstarch, you can use flour or arrowroot powder.
Variations:
- Add chopped kale or spinach to the soup for added nutrition.
- Add diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a tomato-based soup.
- Add cooked beans or lentils for added protein and fiber.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be careful when blending hot soup, as it can splatter and burn you. Use an immersion blender or let the soup cool slightly before blending in a regular blender.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, add more cornstarch or flour to thicken it.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the soup in a bread bowl for a fun presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives
- Croutons
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the soup is too salty, add more water or broth to dilute it.
- If the soup is too bland, add more herbs or spices to taste.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the soup to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
- Potato soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, including Irish and German cuisine.
Flavor Profiles:
- This soup is savory and creamy, with a hint of smokiness from the Smithfield ham.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a main course for lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Savory, Salty, Creamy, Comforting, Hearty