12 Delicious Days of Christmas: Menestra Favorito

A bowl of hot, rich soup is the perfect counterpoint to all the rich meats and sweets on the holiday tables. Menestra Favorito is Spanish-style ham bone soup that's perfect for the occasion. It's not too thick but will fill you up satisfyingly well, and it's special enough to go well with your main dishes. 

Menestra Favorito

Serves 4 to 6

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic

2 teaspoons onion

3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon chopped ham 

1 small ham bone

6 cups water

1 small cauliflower, cut into florets

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper 

3 tablespoons all-purpose cream

1. Sauté garlic, onion and ham in olive oil.

2. Add ham bone and sauté for 5 minutes more. Add water and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until liquid is reduced to 4 cups. Remove ham bone.

3. Add cauliflower, salt and pepper. Simmer briefly till done. 

4. Stir in all-purpose cream just before serving.