Introduction
Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its creamy texture, combined with the savory flavor of ham, makes it a perfect meal for chilly days or a cozy gathering.
The soup is not only easy to prepare but also versatile; you can enjoy it as a hearty main course or a delicious appetizer. With every spoonful, you will appreciate the delightful harmony of flavors and textures, making it a beloved recipe in many households.
Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting, this Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
These potatoes are creamy and buttery in flavor, which adds a rich texture to the soup. Their ability to hold their shape while becoming tender makes them ideal for both flavor and presentation. - 2 cups cooked ham, diced or shredded
Ham adds a savory, smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the potatoes. It's also a great way to use leftover ham, adding protein to the dish. - 1 medium onion, diced
Onions provide a foundational flavor, adding sweetness and depth to the soup as they sauté and soften during cooking. - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
Carrots add a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to the soup, enhancing both the visual appeal and the flavor profile. - 2 stalks celery, diced
Celery contributes a crunchy texture and a refreshing flavor, making the soup more balanced and aromatic. - 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Flour is used to create a roux that will thicken the soup, giving it a hearty, creamy consistency perfect for a comforting meal. - 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
Butter enriches the flavor of the soup, enhancing the overall creaminess and providing a luxurious mouthfeel. - 1 cup grated cheddar cheese, sharp
Cheddar cheese not only adds creaminess and richness to the soup but also a comforting, familiar flavor that pairs beautifully with ham. - 1 1/2 cups milk, whole
Whole milk adds creaminess and balances the richness of the butter and cheese, creating a smoother, more luxurious broth. - 4 cups chicken stock, low sodium
Using chicken stock helps to build a savory base for the soup, infusing it with flavor while allowing you to control the saltiness. - 1 tsp minced garlic, freshly minced
Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic quality to the soup that elevates the flavor profile and adds depth. - 1 tsp dried thyme
Thyme complements the earthiness of the potatoes and the savory ham, tying the flavors together nicely. - 1/4 tsp black pepper
Black pepper adds a touch of heat and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients without overpowering them. - 1 tsp dried parsley
Parsley not only adds a hint of freshness but also enhances the color of the soup, making it visually appealing.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and chopping the Yukon Gold potatoes, dicing the onion, carrots, and celery, and shredding or dicing the ham. Proper preparation is crucial as it allows you to cook efficiently and ensures even cooking throughout. Having all ingredients ready and at hand makes the cooking process smoother, allowing you to focus on balancing flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor in your soup, as sautéing releases the natural sugars in the vegetables and develops a rich, aromatic base.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ham
Stir in the minced garlic and the diced ham, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. This allows the garlic to infuse its flavor into the vegetables and ham, creating a more complex flavor profile. Garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent bitterness.
Step 4: Sprinkle Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed mixture, stirring to coat the ingredients evenly and cooking for about 1-2 minutes. This step is essential for creating a roux, which will thicken your soup. Cooking the flour briefly helps it lose its raw taste, resulting in a richer flavor.
Step 5: Add Stock and Potatoes
Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring to combine, then add the chopped potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil. Using stock instead of water enriches the soup, providing a depth of flavor that plain water would not achieve. Yukon Gold potatoes will cook down beautifully, adding a creamy texture.
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Add thyme, black pepper, and salt, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This simmering step allows all the flavors to meld and develop, and it also ensures that the potatoes become soft enough to integrate into the soup.
Step 7: Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and a bit of the hot soup liquid before adding it back to the pot. This tempering prevents the milk from curdling when added directly to the hot soup. The result will be a creamier texture and a more cohesive appearance.
Step 8: Combine and Add Cheese
Stir in the milk mixture and cheese, allowing it to melt slowly into the soup while stirring until everything is well combined. Cheese enhances the richness and creates a luxurious mouthfeel. Ensure it's melted through evenly for that beautiful, creamy finish.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding salt, pepper, or fresh herbs. This step is vital to ensure the flavors are well balanced; every ingredient should shine through without one overpowering the others.
Step 10: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley or additional cheese if desired. Serving warm enhances the flavors, inviting your guests to indulge in its comforting richness. A simple garnish elevates the presentation and adds a fresh touch.
The Versatility of Yukon Gold Potatoes
Yukon Gold potatoes are famed for their versatility in the kitchen. Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them a favorite not only for soups but also for purees, roasted dishes, and salads. Their ability to hold their shape when cooked means they are perfect for hearty soups like this one, where you want a satisfying mouthfeel without losing the potato's structure.
Reuse and Reinvent Leftover Ham
This soup provides a wonderful opportunity to repurpose leftover ham, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor. Instead of letting that delicious holiday ham go to waste, transform it into a comforting bowl of soup that everyone will love. Not only does it save you time, but it also provides a rich, smoky flavor that a new piece of ham might not deliver.
Mastering Soup Consistency
Achieving the perfect consistency in soups can be tricky but crucial. This recipe balances creaminess with a chunky texture, inviting you to adjust it to your liking. If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer a bit longer or add more flour to the roux. Conversely, if you like a thinner soup, simply add extra stock or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
What if my soup turns out too thick?
If the soup is too thick, gradually add more chicken stock or milk until you achieve the desired consistency, stirring well to combine.
How can I enhance the flavor if the soup is bland?
To enhance the flavor, try adding a dash more salt, some extra herbs like thyme or parsley, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a flavor boost.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, if you have fresh thyme, use about three times the amount as it has a milder flavor than dried thyme. Add it at the same point in the cooking process.
What should I do if I overcooked the potatoes?
If the potatoes are overcooked and becoming mushy, consider blending a portion of the soup to maintain some texture while incorporating the softer potatoes.
Can I substitute the ham with another meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cooked ham with shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
What type of cheese works best in this soup?
Sharp cheddar is ideal because it melts well and provides a robust flavor. However, you can also experiment with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variation.
Conclusion
Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish that brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a delightful choice for any occasion, from family dinners to chilly evenings.
By following this recipe, you can create a dish that not only nourishes but also pleases the palate. Enjoy the wonderful aromas and flavors as they fill your kitchen, and prepare to be complimented on a truly comforting meal.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.