Country-Ham Potato Soup
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
1/4 cup butter

1-1/2 cups chopped onion

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 cup chopped country ham

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 cups chicken broth

4 cups unpeeled, chopped new potatoes

1-1/2 cups heavy cream

2 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

Garnish: additional chopped country ham
In a large stockpot, over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add onion,
garlic, and ham; cook for approximately 4 minutes, or until onion is
soft and ham begins to brown. Add flour and stir for approximately 1
minute, or until well blended. Add broth and stir; cook until
thickened and bubbly. Add potatoes; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to
medium-low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are
tender.

With a potato masher, mash potatoes until only a few chunks remain.
Add cream, thyme, red pepper flakes, and black pepper; cook for 2
minutes. Stir in cheese and sour cream until well blended. Garnish
with additional chopped country ham, if desired.