Amish Snow Day Soup: A Hearty Ham & Vegetable SoupThis soup is built for a chilly day. It’s thick, rich, and packed with chunks of ham and wholesome vegetables, guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.Why It’s Perfect for a Snow Day:Pantry-Friendly: Uses long-lasting root vegetables and canned goods.Simple & Wholesome: No fancy techniques or ingredients.Makes a Large Pot: Perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers.Comfort in a Bowl: Rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.Yields: 8-10 servingsPrep time: 20 minutesCook time: 1 hour 15 minutesIngredients:2 tablespoons butter or bacon drippings1 large onion, chopped2 cloves garlic, minced2 cups cooked ham, diced (a ham bone with some meat left on it is even better!)3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into coins3 celery stalks, diced4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)1 cup frozen or fresh corn1 cup frozen or fresh green beans1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained8 cups chicken or ham broth1 teaspoon dried thyme2 bay leavesSalt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)1 cup whole milk or half-and-half (optional, for a creamier finish)1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)Instructions:Sauté the Aromatics: In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, melt the butter or bacon drippings over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.Build the Soup Base: Add the diced ham and stir for a minute to warm it. Then, add the carrots, celery,
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