In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Add the diced potatoes and diced ham to the pot. Stir to combine.

Season the soup with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Once the potatoes are cooked through, stir in the milk or heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve the soup hot, garnished with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits.

Enjoy your hearty ham and potato soup!

In order to maintain healthy body functions, protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, minerals and dietary fibers must be taken into the body in sufficient amounts with food. For this, each type of food should be consumed in sufficient quantities and without excess, and diversity should be provided in the diet.

Proteins: Proteins are also called the constructive and restorative food group and are the most abundant nutrient in the structure of the human body. Protein needs must be fully met in order to support psychological and cognitive functions, to perform motor skills and produce the energy required for this, to maintain the healthy production of immune system elements and blood, and to perform many other functions. Protein, which is found in varying amounts in plant and animal foods, increases the amount of protein required for a healthy diet in young people and especially in physically active people and athletes with high levels of physical activity, while the amount of protein required to be taken with food decreases in individuals with a sedentary lifestyle and liver and kidney patients.

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the body’s main energy sources; It is found mostly in grains, legumes and fruits. While individuals who want to eat healthy should take care to fully meet their carbohydrate needs, they should meet them from complex carbohydrates (whole grains, legumes, etc.) with high fiber, vitamin and mineral content, instead of refined sugar and purified grains. In this way, weight control can be achieved, while fluctuations in energy and mood can be prevented and blood sugar can be kept under control.

Fats: Fats, another nutrient, are among the food groups most associated with weight gain and should be consumed in moderation. However, in order to maintain body functions without any problems and especially to maintain hormonal balance, the amount of fat the body needs must be met from healthy sources. Processed oils such as animal fats and margarine should be avoided as much as possible, and instead, care should be taken to consume olive oil and fish containing omega 3 fatty acids. While meeting the fat requirement, this is not just about the fats added to foods; It should not be forgotten that foods such as meat, milk and fish contain significant amounts of fat.