Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Ham and Potato Pie Soup?
It is a comforting and innovative soup that puts a twist on the classic pot pie concept by combining ham, potatoes, and homemade dough squares in a rich broth.
What type of ham is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of boneless ham, which should be chunked into bite-sized pieces.
How many potatoes do I need for this soup?
You will need 5 medium potatoes, which should be quartered before cooking.
What are the ingredients for the homemade dough squares?
The dough is made using 2 cups of flour, 2 beaten eggs, and 1/3 cup of water.
Is this soup good for leftovers?
Yes, this soup is known to taste even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for leftovers.
Can I add vegetables to this ham and potato soup?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding green beans to taste as an optional ingredient.
How should I prepare the onion?
You should use 1/4 cup of onion that has been finely chopped.
What kind of texture do the dough squares provide?
The homemade dough squares add a delightful and satisfying texture to the rich, flavorful broth.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.
Can I use leftover holiday ham for this recipe?
Absolutely, this soup is a perfect way to repurpose leftover ham into a completely new meal.
Is this soup suitable for cold weather?
Yes, it is specifically described as a winter meal that is perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 primary ingredients: ham, potatoes, onion, flour, eggs, water, and optional green beans.
Does this soup contain dairy?
Based on the ingredient list, this soup does not contain milk, cream, or butter, making it dairy-free if no additional toppings are added.
How should the eggs be prepared for the dough?
The 2 eggs should be beaten before being mixed with the flour and water to form the dough.
What makes this soup heartier than a standard potato soup?
The addition of chunked ham and homemade dough squares gives it more substance and a 'pie-like' feel compared to plain potato soup.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
While the recipe specifies medium potatoes, you can use Russet, Yukon Gold, or Red potatoes as long as they are quartered.
Is the broth thick or thin?
The soup has a rich, flavorful broth that is naturally thickened by the starch from the potatoes and the flour in the dough squares.
Is this a good meal for families?
Yes, its comforting nature and filling ingredients make it a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, since the flavors meld and improve overnight, it is an excellent dish to prepare in advance.
How much water is needed for the dough?
You will need 1/3 cup of water to combine with the flour and eggs.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Common tags include comfort food, hearty soup, savory pie, and homemade dough.
Can I add black pepper or other seasonings?
While the recipe lists the main components, you can certainly add salt, pepper, or herbs to the broth to suit your taste.
Should the potatoes be peeled?
The recipe doesn't specify peeling, so you can leave the skins on for extra texture or peel them for a smoother consistency.
Are the dough squares cooked separately?
No, the dough squares are generally dropped into the boiling soup broth to cook along with the other ingredients.
Is the onion necessary?
The onion provides a flavor base for the broth, but if you dislike onions, you could use onion powder or omit it.
How large should the dough squares be?
Typically, these dough squares (or 'pot pie' noodles) are cut into 1-inch to 2-inch squares.
Does this soup contain fiber?
Yes, the potatoes and optional green beans provide dietary fiber.
What is the primary protein source?
The primary protein source is the 1 lb of chunked boneless ham, supplemented by the eggs in the dough.
Is there a specific way to reheat the soup?
It can be reheated on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave; you may need to add a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen or fresh green beans can be added to the soup to taste.