Ham Bone Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that makes the most of leftover ham and its bone, creating a flavorful broth packed with tender vegetables, beans, and smoky ham. This soup is perfect for cooler days, offering a satisfying blend of savory flavors and textures. The ham bone adds a deep richness to the soup as it simmers, making every bite warm and comforting. It’s an economical and delicious way to stretch your ham leftovers, turning them into a wholesome, nourishing meal that can feed a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 ham bone with some meat attached
- 8 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chopped cooked ham (from the bone)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ham bone and 8 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 1-2 hours. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a separate pan, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Build the soup: After the broth has simmered, remove the ham bone and set it aside to cool slightly. Add the sautéed vegetables, white beans, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using) to the broth. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the soup for another 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the ham: Once the ham bone is cool enough to handle, pick off any remaining meat and chop it. Discard the bone. Stir the chopped ham into the soup, along with any additional cooked ham. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
This Ham Bone Soup is a delicious way to enjoy leftovers, offering a cozy and nutritious meal packed with flavor!
