Honey Baked Ham Bone Soup: A Taste Of Comfort

The Warmth of Home on a Cold Night

There’s something about a steaming bowl of soup that just melts away the worries of the day. And when it comes to warm-hearted meals, few things beat the comforting, soul-satisfying goodness of honey baked ham bone soup. This recipe brings back memories of cozy nights by the fireplace, where the aroma alone is enough to conjure up a sense of warmth and happiness.

The key ingredient in this soup is, of course, the bone broth. It’s the foundation of this dish, built on years of simmering ham bones, providing a rich, flavorful base that will make your taste buds sing with every spoonful. These bones slowly seep out their flavor, becoming infused with the essence of sweet ham and earthy herbs, creating a culinary symphony that’s both comforting and delicious.

The beauty of this soup isn’t just in its taste; it’s also in its versatility. You can play around with different types of vegetables, add in some fresh herbs, or even top it off with a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra layer of indulgence. It’s all about embracing the joy of cooking and creating something truly special.

So let’s dive into the recipe itself!

**Ingredients:**

• 1/2 pound bone-in ham hock (you can also use a leftover ham bone)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced (optional, adds extra sweetness)
• 1 cup chopped kale or collard greens (optional, adds an earthy flavor)
• freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Start by browning the ham hock in a large pot over medium heat. This will help to develop the flavors and give it a beautiful color.
2. Add the onion, carrot, celery, thyme, pepper, bay leaf, and salt to the pot. Stir everything together for about a minute or two until the vegetables are softened slightly and lightly browned.
3. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) , add the optional sweet potato, and bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2-3 hours if you want a deeper flavor.
4. While the soup simmers, you can get your vegetables prepped. Dice any remaining veggies for a faster prep time if needed.
5. After about an hour, check the soup and see how it’s coming along. You might need to add more salt or pepper at this point. If you want extra depth, simmering over low heat, for hours will give the pot maximum flavor.
6. To thicken the soup, you can use a potato masher if desired, but don’t overdo it. You are aiming for a creamy texture and not just chunky bits.
7. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. The key here is finding that perfect balance of savory and sweet. If you want extra sweetness you can try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup.
8. Serve your honey baked ham bone soup hot, topped with fresh parsley if desired. You can garnish it however you like – some people enjoy a bit of crunchy croutons or a sprinkle of chopped chives as well.

**The Magic of Homemade:**

Making this soup from scratch is truly magical. You’ll notice that the broth tastes richer and more complex than any store-bought version. The ham bones infuse their essence into every sip, taking your taste buds on a delightful journey through flavor.

This recipe might seem straightforward, but there’s something quite special about the process. You get to control the ingredients, play with different flavors, and truly personalize your creation. It’s a sensory experience that goes beyond just eating; it’s an adventure in culinary creativity.

As you sip on this warm, comforting soup on a chilly evening, imagine the scene: the aroma of simmering ham bones fills the air, while the warmth of the bowl brings a sense of comfort and joy. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel both nourished and cared for.

So, grab a spoon, gather your loved ones, and start creating your own version of this warm and comforting honey baked ham bone soup recipe!