Vegetable soup with pasta and homemade ham

Vegetable soup with pasta and homemade ham

When you find yourself in a foreign house and the refrigerator seems to be on a fasting diet, creativity in the kitchen becomes essential. This vegetable soup recipe with pasta and homemade ham is perfect for such moments, as it uses simple yet flavorful ingredients. With each spoonful, you will discover not only a nourishing meal but also a delicious story that blends tradition with innovation.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 200 g homemade ham
- 2 larger carrots
- 100 g green beans (a few pods)
- 1 small zucchini
- 1 slice of celery
- 100 g cauliflower (a few florets)
- 400 g tomato pulp (fresh or canned)
- 1 large potato
- 1 small onion
- 50 g pasta (preferably short pasta, such as penne or fusilli)
- 2.5 l water
- Salt, pepper to taste
- A pinch of fresh thyme
- Fresh parsley leaves
- A chili pepper (optional)
- A tablespoon of sour cream (optional)

Recipe history:
Vegetable soup is a traditional dish, appreciated for its versatility and for how it combines the natural flavors of vegetables. Over time, it has evolved into various versions, each with its regional specificity. The use of homemade ham adds an intense flavor and pleasant texture, turning this soup into a true feast.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by slicing the homemade ham into thin strips. If you have time, you can blanch it briefly in hot water to reduce its saltiness and smoky flavor. This will help achieve a more balanced soup in terms of taste.
- Clean the vegetables: carrots, potato, zucchini, and celery. Cut them into cubes or strips, and the cauliflower into small florets. This will ensure even cooking.

2. Boiling the ham:
- In a large pot, add the 2.5 liters of water and the sliced ham. Let it boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes. This process will release the flavors from the ham and form the base of the soup.

3. Adding the vegetables:
- After 20 minutes, add the chopped vegetables: carrots, potato, zucchini, celery, and cauliflower. Let everything boil together for 15 minutes until the vegetables become slightly tender.

4. Adding the tomato pulp:
- 10 minutes before finishing cooking, add the tomato pulp. Here you can use fresh tomatoes, chopped finely, or a can of chopped tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme to taste. Taste the soup and adjust the flavors by adding more tomato paste if you want a tangier note.

5. The pasta:
- In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the pasta. Make sure to stir well to prevent sticking. Cook according to the instructions on the package, but check them earlier, as the pasta may cook faster in the soup.

6. Finalizing:
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Add the fresh parsley leaves for an extra freshness. If you like, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream when serving for a creamy texture and richer flavor.

7. Serving:
- Serve the soup hot in a deep bowl. A fresh chili pepper on the side can add a touch of spice, perfect for those who love intense flavors.

Practical tips:
- If you don't have homemade ham, you can use other types of smoked meat or even homemade sausage, which will add a similar flavor.
- Vary the vegetables according to the season; for example, you can add pumpkin, spinach, or peas for an explosion of colors and flavors.
- This soup can be made a day in advance; the flavor gets even better as the aromas blend.
- Give it a personal touch by adding spices like basil, oregano, or even a pinch of paprika for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The vitamin-rich vegetables, such as carrots and zucchini, combined with the protein from the ham, make this dish a balanced meal. Additionally, the pasta adds essential carbohydrates for energy.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add more chili peppers or a chili sauce at the end to adjust the spiciness to taste.

3. Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, but it is recommended to add the fresh pasta only when reheating to maintain its texture.

I invite you to enjoy every bite and share the vegetable soup with your loved ones. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 200 g homemade ham, 2 larger carrots, a few green bean pods, 1 small zucchini, 1 slice of celery, a few cauliflower florets, tomato pulp, salt, pepper, a little fresh thyme, parsley leaves, 1 potato, 1 smaller onion, 50 g pasta, 2.5 l water

 Tags:  vegetable soup ham soup