Embarking on a culinary adventure often begins with understanding the key ingredients that contribute to the flavor, texture, and nutritional value of a dish. In the case of Creamy Ham and Potato Soup, each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of savory goodness and wholesome comfort. Let’s delve into the ingredients that give this soup its distinctive character, and explore the nutritional benefits it offers.
Ingredients:
- Onions: Onions serve as a flavorful base for the soup, imparting a sweet and aromatic undertone to the broth. They also provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, which support immune health and digestive function.
- Celery: Celery adds a refreshing crunch and subtle herbal flavor to the soup. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin K and folate, celery offers potential health benefits such as reduced inflammation and improved heart health.
- Carrots: Carrots contribute vibrant color and natural sweetness to the soup, while also providing an abundance of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and potassium. These nutrients promote eye health, immune function, and overall vitality.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Known for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, Yukon Gold potatoes are the star of this dish. They hold their shape well during cooking, adding hearty substance to the soup while offering a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.
- Sweet Deli Ham: Sweet deli ham lends a rich, smoky flavor to the soup, complementing the earthy sweetness of the vegetables. Rich in protein, ham provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and overall growth and development.
- Garlic: Garlic adds depth and complexity to the broth, infusing it with its distinct pungent flavor. Renowned for its potential health benefits, garlic is believed to possess antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Onion Powder and Dried Parsley: These pantry staples enhance the soup’s flavor profile, adding depth and aroma to the broth. While onion powder offers a concentrated onion flavor, dried parsley lends a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Serving as the liquid base of the soup, low-sodium chicken broth provides depth of flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients. It also serves as a source of essential minerals and electrolytes, promoting hydration and overall well-being.
- Butter, Flour, and Milk: This trio forms the foundation of the creamy broth, imparting richness and velvety texture to the soup. While butter adds indulgent flavor, flour serves as a thickening agent, and milk contributes creaminess and dairy goodness.
Nutritional Benefits:
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup offers a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients, making it both satisfying and nourishing. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional profile per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 438 calories per serving, providing energy for daily activities and metabolism.
- Total Fat: With 22.3 grams of fat per serving, including 27% of the recommended daily intake of cholesterol, the soup offers satiety and flavor.
- Sodium: Each serving contains 234.3 milligrams of sodium, contributing to the soup’s savory taste while allowing for control over salt intake.
- Total Carbohydrate: Approximately 34.7 grams of carbohydrates per serving, including 8.9 grams of sugars, providing sustained energy throughout the day.
- Protein: With 24.9 grams of protein per serving, the soup offers a satisfying source of amino acids necessary for muscle repair and overall health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and calcium, supporting immune function, vision health, and bone strength.
Conclusion:
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is more than just a delicious meal – it’s a nourishing blend of wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and soul. From the hearty potatoes to the savory ham and aromatic spices, each component contributes to a symphony of flavor and nutrition. So next time you savor a bowl of this comforting soup, take a moment to appreciate the abundance of goodness it offers, both inside and out.
image source : Small Town Woman
