ham and wild rice soup

Ham and Wild Rice Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Delight

 When it comes to comforting and hearty soups, Ham and Wild Rice Soup stands out as a classic favorite. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover ham and transform it into a warm and satisfying meal. Packed with the goodness of ham, wild rice, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a dish to impress your family and friends, this recipe has you covered. Let’s embark on a culinary journey and create a soup that’s bound to become a cherished tradition.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup wild rice, uncooked
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crispy bacon bits (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Soup:

1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water.
2. In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the wild rice and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes or until the wild rice is tender.
6. Once the wild rice is tender, remove the bay leaf.
7. Stir in the diced ham and heavy cream. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the soup is heated through.
8. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish: 9. Ladle the Ham and Wild Rice Soup into bowls.

10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and crispy bacon bits (if desired).
11. Serve hot and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this comforting soup.

Cook’s Notes:

• You can use leftover ham, ham steak, or even smoked turkey for a twist on the classic recipe.
• For a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of all-purpose flour in the roux.
• To add extra depth of flavor, you can sauté the vegetables in a combination of butter and olive oil.
• Customize the soup with your favorite herbs and spices. A pinch of thyme or a dash of cayenne pepper can provide an extra layer of flavor.
• The wild rice takes longer to cook compared to regular white rice, so be patient and let it simmer until tender.

Ham and Wild Rice Soup is a wholesome and comforting meal that brings together the goodness of ham, wild rice, and a medley of vegetables. It’s a delightful soup that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. Create your own tradition with this recipe, and savor the heartwarming flavors it offers.