Leftover Ham Bone Soup

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So, you just had a delicious holiday meal and now you're left with a big ham bone.

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Leftover Ham Bone Soup
Prep
15 min
Cook
1 hr 15 min
Total
1 hr 30 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. Fill a large soup pot with enough water to cover the ham bone, but do not add the bone yet. Bring the water to a boil.

  2. Once the water is boiling, add the bouillon cubes and salt. Use a spoon to crush the bouillon cubes until they are dissolved. Then, add the ham bone, potatoes, onions, kidney beans, turmeric, and cloves. Stir well to blend the spices and bring the mixture back to a boil.

  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the ham is hot and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.

  4. Remove the ham bone from the soup. Shred the meat and discard the bone. Return the shredded meat to the soup.

  5. Serve the soup and enjoy!

  6. While waiting for the water to boil, chop the potatoes and onions. This can help save time. Additionally, once you have added all the ingredients to the pot, you can use your free time to do other tasks, like putting up laundry or quickly making biscuits to serve with the soup.

About this recipe

What to do with that leftover ham bone?

So, you just had a delicious holiday meal and now you're left with a big ham bone. Don't throw it away! Instead, transform it into a hearty and flavorful soup that will warm your soul. In this article, we will explore the wonderful world of leftover ham bone soup, and discover some creative ways to use up that precious ingredient.

The magic of the ham bone

Just like a magician who can turn a simple trick into a grand spectacle, the ham bone has the power to elevate a basic soup to new heights. It's like a secret ingredient that adds depth, richness, and a hint of smokiness to every spoonful. It's the backbone of the soup, the foundation upon which all the other flavors are built.

Simmering the flavors

When you simmer the ham bone in a pot of water, something magical happens. The flavors from the bone seep into the liquid, creating a broth that is both savory and comforting. As the soup simmers away on the stove, your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of ham and spices, making your mouth water in anticipation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any kind of ham bone?

Absolutely! Whether it's a leftover spiral-cut ham bone or a bone from a glazed ham, both will work perfectly fine. The important thing is to make sure the bone still has some meat attached to it, as this will add extra flavor to the soup.

Do I need to remove the meat from the bone?

No need to remove the meat beforehand. As the soup simmers, the meat will naturally fall off the bone and become tender and delicious. You can then shred it and add it back into the soup, or use it as a topping.

What vegetables should I include in the soup?

The choice of vegetables is up to you and your personal preferences. However, some classic options include carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. These vegetables not only add flavor and texture to the soup, but they also complement the ham bone beautifully.

How long should I simmer the soup?

The longer you simmer the soup, the more flavorful it will become. Ideally, aim for at least 1-2 hours of simmering time to allow the flavors to meld together. However, if you're short on time, even 30 minutes can still result in a tasty soup.

Can I freeze the leftover soup?

Absolutely! Leftover ham bone soup freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy it at a later time. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the containers with the date for easy reference.

Can I add other seasonings to the soup?

Of course! While the ham bone itself adds plenty of flavor, feel free to enhance it with additional seasonings. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary, spices like black pepper or paprika, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Making leftover ham bone soup in a slow cooker is a great option if you want to set it and forget it. Simply place all the ingredients, including the ham bone, into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The result will be a tender and flavorful soup.

What can I serve with leftover ham bone soup?

Leftover ham bone soup is a meal in itself, but if you want to elevate it further, you can serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad. The bread will help you soak up all the delicious broth, while the salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

In conclusion

Leftover ham bone soup is not only a delicious way to use up that leftover bone, but it's also a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm your heart. So, the next time you find yourself with a ham bone, don't let it go to waste. Let it work its magic and transform into a soup that will leave you wanting more.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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