Hearty Tomato Ham Soup: A Taste of Home

The aroma of simmering tomatoes and savory ham always takes me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. I can almost see her now, standing over the stove, stirring a pot of this very soup. Her secret ingredient, she always claimed, was a pinch of love – but I suspect it was also the slow simmering that coaxed out the deep, comforting flavors. This recipe, adapted from a well-loved magazine clipping, captures that same warmth and nostalgia. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: About 10 cups
• Dietary Type: Not suitable for vegetarians

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 package coleslaw mix
• 1 Vidalia onion, diced
• 4 shallots, sliced
• 1 (46 ounce) can tomato juice
• 1 (14 ounce) can Hunt’s Diced Garlic Balsamic & Olive Oil Diced Tomatoes
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 3 cups chopped ham
• 1 tablespoon chili paste

Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the coleslaw mix, diced Vidalia onion, and sliced shallots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and limp, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the base flavor of the soup. Don’t rush it!

3. Pour in the can of tomato juice and the can of Hunt’s Diced Garlic Balsamic & Olive Oil Diced Tomatoes. The balsamic in these diced tomatoes adds a lovely depth of flavor.

4. Add the water, sugar, salt, and fresh ground pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

5. Stir in the chili paste. Adjust the amount to your preference for spice. A little goes a long way!

6. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1 hour. The longer simmering time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Be patient!

7. After 1 hour of simmering, add the chopped ham. Stir to incorporate the ham into the soup.

8. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the ham to heat through and further infuse its flavor into the broth.

9. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or chili paste to suit your taste.

10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, consider using homemade tomato juice. If you have access to fresh, ripe tomatoes, you can blend them and strain the pulp to create your own juice.
• If you don’t have Hunt’s Diced Garlic Balsamic & Olive Oil Diced Tomatoes, you can substitute regular diced tomatoes and add a splash of balsamic vinegar and a clove of minced garlic.
• To deepen the smoky flavor of the soup, use smoked ham.
• If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the ham. Be careful not to over-blend it, as you still want some texture.
• To save time, you can use pre-diced ham.
• If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the chili paste.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or great northern beans for added protein and texture.
• Make ahead: The soup can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld even more as it sits.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Tomato Ham Soup hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. A crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect accompaniment for dipping.

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and then gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	135.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	38 g	28%
Total Fat	4.2 g	6%
Saturated Fat	1.2 g	5%
Cholesterol	27.3 mg	9%
Sodium	1541.1 mg	64%
Total Carbohydrate	11.9 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	8.1 g	N/A
Protein	13.4 g	26%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Tomato Ham Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup for a kick.
• Creamy Tomato Ham Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Hearty Tomato Ham & Bean Soup: Add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or great northern beans to the soup for added protein and fiber.
• Smoked Ham Soup: Replace the regular ham with smoked ham for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or zucchini to the soup for extra nutrients and flavor. Diced potatoes will also add a heartier element.
• Italian Tomato Ham Soup: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a handful of fresh basil leaves to the soup for an Italian-inspired twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of ham?
A: Yes, you can use any type of ham you prefer, such as smoked ham, honey-baked ham, or even leftover ham from a holiday meal. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Simply combine all the ingredients (except the ham) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: How can I reduce the sodium content of this soup?
A: Use low-sodium tomato juice, broth, and ham. You can also reduce the amount of salt called for in the recipe and taste and adjust as needed.

Q: What can I serve with this soup?
A: This soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, cornbread, or a simple side salad.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Tomato Ham Soup recipe brings you as much joy and comfort as it has brought me and my family over the years. It’s a truly versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your own tastes and preferences. So, grab your favorite pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a warm and satisfying meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Please share your feedback and any creative twists you come up with – I’d love to hear about them! Consider pairing this soup with a crisp green salad and a glass of Pinot Noir for a complete and comforting meal.