Cream of Baby Chard Soup with Bacon Spam

Cream of Baby Chard Soup with Bacon Spam is a rich, comforting soup that blends the mild, earthy flavor of tender baby chard with the savory, smoky punch of crispy Bacon Spam. Velvety smooth thanks to a blend of sautéed aromatics and cream, this hearty soup is both satisfying and unique. The Spam adds meaty depth and texture, making it a full meal in a bowl. Balanced with a hint of garlic, optional nutmeg, and a touch of lemon for brightness, it’s a flavorful twist on classic leafy green soups—perfect for cool days or cozy dinners.

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can Bacon Spam, diced
• 1.5-2 pounds baby chard, roughly chopped
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
• Croutons or grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Spam:
   • In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the diced Bacon Spam and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the Spam from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
   • Add the chopped onions and garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook Baby Chard:
   • Add the chopped baby chard leaves to the pot.
   • Cook until the chard is wilted and tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Broth:
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Blend Soup:
   • Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
   • Return the blended soup to the pot.
6. Add Cream and Spam:
   • Stir in the heavy cream.
   • Return the cooked Bacon Spam to the pot.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of nutmeg if desired for a hint of warmth.
   • If using, stir in the lemon juice for a touch of brightness.
7. Heat Through:
   • Heat the soup gently over low heat until it is warmed through. Do not boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls.
   • Garnish with croutons or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your creamy and delicious Baby Chard Soup with Bacon Spam!

Makes 6 to 8 servings

• 6 large bowls (about 1.5 to 2 cups per serving) — if serving as a main dish.
• 8 smaller bowls (about 1 to 1.25 cups per serving) — if serving as a starter or side.

You can stretch it further by serving with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a salad.