Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year? Look no further than slow cooker ham soup. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with tender ham, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth that’s simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. In this article, we’ll show you how to make slow cooker ham soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why Make Slow Cooker Ham Soup?
There are many reasons why slow cooker ham soup is a great choice for a meal. Here are just a few:
- Convenience: Slow cooker ham soup is incredibly easy to make. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
- Flexibility: You can customize slow cooker ham soup to suit your tastes. Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices to make it your own.
- Cost-effective: Slow cooker ham soup is a budget-friendly meal option. You can use leftover ham and vegetables to make it even more affordable.
- Nutritious: Slow cooker ham soup is a nutritious meal option that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients Needed
To make slow cooker ham soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound diced ham
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 large potato, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
You can also add the following ingredients to customize your slow cooker ham soup:
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
Instructions
To make slow cooker ham soup, follow these steps:
- Add the diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, chopped celery, and chopped potato to your slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, water, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and carrots.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best slow cooker ham soup:
- Use leftover ham: If you have leftover ham from a previous meal, you can use it to make slow cooker ham soup.
- Add other vegetables: You can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes to make the soup more flavorful.
- Use different herbs: You can use different herbs like parsley, dill, and basil to give the soup a unique flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread: Serve the soup with crusty bread for a filling and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information
Here is the nutrition information for slow cooker ham soup:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| — | — |
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Health Benefits
Slow cooker ham soup is a nutritious meal option that offers several health benefits. Here are some of the key health benefits:
- High in protein: Slow cooker ham soup is high in protein, which can help to build and repair muscles.
- Low in calories: Slow cooker ham soup is low in calories, making it a great option for those who are trying to lose weight.
- Rich in fiber: Slow cooker ham soup is rich in fiber, which can help to promote digestive health.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals: Slow cooker ham soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
Conclusion
Slow cooker ham soup is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a hearty and satisfying soup, slow cooker ham soup is a great option. So why not give it a try today?
What is the best type of ham to use for slow cooker ham soup?
The best type of ham to use for slow cooker ham soup is a bone-in ham or a ham hock. This type of ham is typically less expensive than boneless ham and has more flavor. The bone and connective tissue in the ham will break down during the slow cooking process, adding a rich and savory flavor to the soup. You can also use leftover ham or a ham steak if you prefer.
When choosing a ham, look for one that is smoked or cured, as this will give the soup a more complex flavor. Avoid using a spiral-cut ham, as it may become too salty during the cooking process. You can also use a combination of ham and bacon or other meats to add more flavor to the soup.
Can I make slow cooker ham soup in advance?
Yes, you can make slow cooker ham soup in advance. In fact, this soup is perfect for meal prep or for making ahead of time. You can prepare the ingredients and cook the soup in the slow cooker, then refrigerate or freeze it for later use. This soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat the soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop. This soup is perfect for busy days when you need a quick and easy meal.
How do I make slow cooker ham soup more substantial?
To make slow cooker ham soup more substantial, you can add some starchy ingredients such as potatoes, carrots, or pasta. These ingredients will help to thicken the soup and make it more filling. You can also add some protein sources such as beans, lentils, or diced chicken to make the soup more satisfying.
Another way to make the soup more substantial is to serve it with some crusty bread or crackers. This will help to soak up the flavorful broth and make the meal more satisfying. You can also add some grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream to make the soup more creamy and indulgent.
Can I make slow cooker ham soup in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can make slow cooker ham soup in a pressure cooker. In fact, a pressure cooker is a great way to make this soup if you are short on time. Simply brown the ham and vegetables in a pan, then add the remaining ingredients to the pressure cooker. Cook the soup on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
Using a pressure cooker will significantly reduce the cooking time, but the flavor and texture of the soup may be slightly different. The pressure cooker will help to break down the connective tissue in the ham more quickly, resulting in a tender and flavorful soup.
How do I store leftover slow cooker ham soup?
To store leftover slow cooker ham soup, let it cool completely, then refrigerate or freeze it. You can store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to divide the soup into individual portions and freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags.
When reheating the soup, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the soup in the slow cooker, on the stovetop, or in the microwave.
Can I make slow cooker ham soup without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make slow cooker ham soup without a slow cooker. You can cook the soup on the stovetop or in the oven instead. Simply brown the ham and vegetables in a pan, then add the remaining ingredients to a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the ham is tender.
Alternatively, you can cook the soup in the oven. Simply brown the ham and vegetables in a pan, then add the remaining ingredients to a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. Cover the pot and cook the soup in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours, or until the ham is tender.
Is slow cooker ham soup healthy?
Slow cooker ham soup can be a healthy meal option, depending on the ingredients you use. Ham is a good source of protein, and the vegetables in the soup provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, the soup can be high in sodium and saturated fat, depending on the type of ham and broth you use.
To make the soup healthier, use a low-sodium broth and a leaner type of ham. You can also add more vegetables and beans to increase the fiber and protein content of the soup. Additionally, use herbs and spices to flavor the soup instead of salt and sugar.