Creamy Ham Of Broccoli Soup
A rich, creamy broccoli and ham soup with a velvety texture, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a large pot and add chopped onion.
- Saute until tender, but not brown.
- Blend in flour, then gradually stir in milk.
- Cook until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add drained broccoli, ham cubes, and salt to taste.
- Simmer until the soup thickens.
- Optional: sprinkle with cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the milk or use low-fat margarine. If you don't have ham, diced turkey or chicken can work well too. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile. To expedite cooking, consider using pre-cooked ham or rotisserie chicken. For extra texture, toss in some croutons before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy ham and broccoli soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli Or Cauliflower Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a comforting touch, consider topping each bowl with shredded cheese or fresh herbs. Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid boiling, as it may separate the soup. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months, but it may alter the texture slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Ham Of Broccoli Soup contains roughly 1622 calories, with 25g protein, 237g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (96% of the Daily Value), calcium (81% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1839mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes until tender, then drain before adding to the soup. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of milk. You can add extra vegetables like carrots and celery for more flavor. Consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, creating a rich and satisfying soup.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently while stirring to ensure it blends well. This is a great way to adjust the texture without compromising flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).