You are currently viewing IRISH HAM AND CHEESE SOUP

IRISH HAM AND CHEESE SOUP

Description: Irish Ham and Cheese Soup is a hearty and flavorful soup that combines the smoky taste of ham with the creamy richness of cheese, along with traditional Irish ingredients like potatoes and leeks. It’s a comforting dish that will warm you up on cold days.

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Serving size: 4 servings

 

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 leek, white and light green parts, cleaned and thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups diced cooked ham
  • 2 cups shredded Irish cheddar cheese (or any other sharp cheddar)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

 

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic, and sauté until the leeks are softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir them with the leeks and garlic, allowing them to cook for a few minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, partially mash the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup slightly.
  5. Add the diced ham to the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
  6. Stir in the shredded Irish cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Then, pour in the milk and heavy cream. Continue to cook the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup reaches a desired consistency.
  7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of the ham and cheese.
  8. Once the soup is well heated and creamy, remove it from the heat.
  9. Ladle the Irish Ham and Cheese Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting Irish flavors of this delicious soup!

Note: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and texture. Serve with crusty Irish soda bread or a side of Irish brown bread for a complete meal.