Rutabaga Soup
A hearty and comforting rutabaga soup with tender vegetables, ham, and a flavorful thickening, perfect for cozy meals and satisfying the taste buds with savory goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the turkey ham, rutabaga, potatoes, and onion; put in a 4-quart kettle and cook until tender.
- Add peas and carrots, parsley flakes, and dried celery flakes to the kettle to make the soup more flavorful.
- Heat a skillet; add vegetable oil, flour, and salt, then turn the heat to medium and let the flour brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- When the flour is browned, add water and let it thicken to a medium consistency; pour the thickened mixture into the soup and stir well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or additional vegetables like celery. If turkey ham isn't available, any diced ham or even smoked sausage can be a delicious substitute. Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. To thicken the soup further, you can blend a portion of it for a creamier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rutabaga soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad like the 10 Ingredient Salad for a light and balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside Kentucky-Fried Corn for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rutabaga Soup contains roughly 1952 calories, with 14g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 176g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (283% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1998mg per serving (87% 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 other types of meat instead of turkey ham?
Yes, you can substitute turkey ham with any cooked ham, bacon, or smoked sausage. Each will add a different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference. For a vegetarian option, consider omitting the meat and adding more vegetables or legumes for protein.
How can I make the soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the turkey ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor. This way, you'll still have a hearty and satisfying soup without the meat.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve. It's a great option for meal prep, especially during busy weeks.
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).