Cozy up with a bowl of ham and cabbage soup with ham bone: the ultimate comfort food

Indulge in the hearty, comforting flavors of ham and cabbage soup prepared with a savory ham bone. This classic dish is a testament to the transformative power of simple ingredients, offering a symphony of tastes and textures that will warm your soul and nourish your body. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring that you create the most delicious ham and cabbage soup with ham bone.

Ingredients

• 1 large ham bone with meat
• 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ham Bone

Remove the ham bone from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the meat and bone release their flavors into the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Ham Bone and Broth

Place the ham bone in the pot and add the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add the thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Remove the Ham Bone

Once the soup has simmered, remove the ham bone from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then use your hands or a fork to remove the meat from the bone. Shred or chop the ham and set aside.

Step 7: Add the Ham Meat

Return the shredded or chopped ham to the soup and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the soup has thickened and the flavors have blended.

Variations

• Add potatoes: For a more filling soup, add 2-3 diced potatoes to the pot when you sauté the vegetables.
• Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as green beans, peas, or bell peppers.
• Add a touch of spice: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup.
• Top with fresh herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or chives, on top of the soup for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use a smoked ham bone.
• If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use 1 pound of ham hocks instead.
• Simmer the soup for as long as possible to allow the flavors to develop fully.
• Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or crackers.

The Culinary Benefits of Ham and Cabbage Soup with Ham Bone

• Nourishing: Ham and cabbage soup is a nutrient-rich dish that provides protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• Comforting: The warm, savory flavors of the soup offer a sense of comfort and well-being.
• Versatile: Ham and cabbage soup can be customized to your liking by adding or removing ingredients.
• Budget-friendly: This soup is an affordable meal option that can feed a crowd.

Wrapping Up

Creating ham and cabbage soup with ham bone is a culinary art form that combines simplicity with sophistication. By following our step-by-step guide and exploring the variations we’ve provided, you can master this classic dish and impress your family and friends with its heartwarming flavors. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I freeze ham and cabbage soup with ham bone?
A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.

Q: How long does ham and cabbage soup with ham bone last in the refrigerator?
A: The soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Q: What is the best way to reheat ham and cabbage soup with ham bone?
A: You can reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave on low power.