Step by step
Step 1
Combine the potatoes, celery, onion, ham and stock in a soup pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 12–18 minutes, until the potato cubes are tender.
Step 2
In a second saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Step 3
Gradually whisk in the milk, keeping the mixture smooth. Cook, stirring, until it thickens enough to coat a spoon.
Step 4
Stir the milk mixture into the soup. Heat gently until fully hot and the ham reaches 165°F (74°C), then season after tasting.
Kitchen guide: Sauté without steaming everything in the pan
About this recipe
Adapted from archive recipe 829. Low-sodium stock replaces water plus bouillon granules; the full initial salt and pepper amounts are not imposed.
Edited for PotusPlate, October 2026. This home adaptation has not yet been kitchen-tested. The archive photograph illustrates the earlier version.