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Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup

Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup brings together tender Yukon Gold potatoes, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables in a rich broth built on browned butter and a light roux. A touch of cream adds lushness while a quick mash gives body, and fresh chives brighten each spoonful. Ideal for a cozy dinner on a cool evening.

  • Prep20 mins
  • Cook40 mins
  • Serves4
  • DifficultyEasy
Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup
  1. 1

    Melt butter in a stockpot over medium heat until it turns golden brown. Add the carrot, celery, onion, ham, and garlic; cook and stir for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onions are translucent.

  2. 2

    Stir in the flour; cook for about 3 minutes. Gradually add the chicken broth, 1 cup at a time. Add the water and stir to combine. Increase the heat to high and bring to a simmer. Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. 3

    Taste the soup for salt and add more if needed. Stir in the potatoes; cook for 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Skim off fat if desired.

  4. 4

    Use a potato masher to mash the soup a few times, leaving plenty of whole potato chunks. Season with salt and pepper to taste, add cayenne if desired, then add the cream. Stir to combine and heat through. Garnish with fresh chives.

About This Recipe

Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup is an American dinner recipe made with 14 ingredients. It takes about 1 hr, serves 4, and is rated easy. Key ingredients include Butter, Cake Flour, Carrot, and Cayenne Pepper. Each serving provides about 469.22 kcal, and is a good source of protein.

Recipe Questions

What is Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup?
It is an American soup recipe made with 14 ingredients, usually served for dinner or lunch or soup.
What is Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup made of?
The main ingredients are Butter, Cake Flour, Carrot, Cayenne Pepper, Celery. The full list of 14 is above.
What goes well with Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup?
Explore these American side-dish recipes.
How long does it take to make Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup?
About 1 hr in total: 20 mins to prepare and 40 mins to cook.
How many calories are in one serving?
One serving provides about 469.22 kcal. The full nutrition breakdown is above.
Is Chef John's Ham and Potato Soup easy to make?
This recipe is rated easy, with 14 ingredients and 4 steps.

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