Hempler’s hams have been a staple at the holiday table since 1934, when founder Hans started his own business, keeping the secret recipes of his family’s sausage shop in Borken, Germany alive right here in the Pacific Northwest.
Now 91 years later, the family business is still going strong, using quality ingredients to make small-batch hams, sausages, and bacon in Ferndale, Washington.
This time of year, many families’ feasts feature a Hempler’s ham, and whether you prefer the honey-cured or the Black Forest ham, chances are you have leftovers in the fridge afterward.
Making a sandwich with a roll and cranberry sauce is always a solid option, but to get the most bang for your buck, we suggest throwing the ham in a soup. These recipes are like a spoonful of the season, sure to leave you warm and full.
Photo courtesy of Hempler’s
Ham and Potato Soup
This hearty dish packs plenty of vegetables (potato, onion, carrots, and celery) into a thick base you make by whisking flour into heated butter and milk. Throw in garlic, ham, and bacon slices, plus thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper and chili flakes to taste. All in all, cook time takes about 30 minutes — ideal if you’re entertaining guests.
Photo courtesy of Hempler’s
Split Pea Soup with Ham
This might be the most obvious route to take the leftover ham, but a few surprise ingredients like chili flakes and bacon take this traditional take to another level of comfort food. Don’t worry, you’ll only have to get off the couch for about 45-50 minutes, then you can go right back to binging Hallmark flicks.