Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a 6-quart Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat, then add the onion, celery, and carrot and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
- Add the potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper, then bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Stir in the ham and milk and simmer gently for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is hot throughout and reaches 165°F; do not let it boil.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the smoothest broth, whisk in the chicken broth gradually. Refrigerate leftovers for 3 to 4 days; freezing is possible, though the potatoes and milk may change texture after thawing. For a dairy-free swap, use plant-based butter and unsweetened dairy-free milk.
