Split pea soup with ham is a wholesome and comforting dish that warms the soul, especially on chilly days. This recipe combines tender split peas with savory ham and a medley of vegetables to create a deliciously thick and hearty soup. Perfect as a main meal or a starter, it encapsulates the essence of home-cooked comfort. The beauty of this soup lies not just in its flavors but also in its simplicity, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe
This recipe for split pea soup with ham stands out for numerous reasons. Its rich and hearty flavors make it a go-to comfort food for many, while the inclusion of nutritious ingredients ensures you’re not just indulging but nourishing your body as well. The split peas provide a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making this dish satisfying and health-friendly. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly and a wonderful way to use leftover ham, reducing food waste. Each bowl offers a warm embrace that feels like home, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Ingredients about Split Pea Soup with Ham
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 1 pound (about 2 ¼ cups) dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 ham bone or 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 7–8 cups chicken broth or water (adjust for desired thickness)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or croutons
If you prefer a leaner option, consider using smoked turkey leg instead of ham. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and substitute vegetable broth, adding 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. Feel free to enhance the soup by adding diced potatoes or frozen peas, giving it added texture and variety.
How to Make Split Pea Soup with Ham Directions
Preparing split pea soup with ham is straightforward and rewarding. Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the vegetables to soften and release their flavors, creating a solid base for the soup.
Next, stir in the rinsed split peas along with your choice of ham—whether you’re using a bone for flavor or diced ham for substance. Toss in the bay leaf and dried thyme. Pour in 7 cups of chicken broth or water, then give everything a thorough stir to combine. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, watching closely to prevent overflow.
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot slightly, using a tilted lid to allow steam to escape, and let the soup simmer for 60 to 75 minutes. Stir it occasionally. This waiting period allows the split peas to soften and break down, naturally thickening your soup into a creamy delight.
After the simmering time, the soup will look thick and comforting. If you would prefer a smoother texture, consider using an immersion blender to purée part of the soup. If your soup appears too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
If you used a ham bone, carefully remove it from the pot after cooking. Shred any remaining meat found on the bone and stir it back into the soup. Don’t forget to taste your creation; add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference to elevate the flavors.
Ladle the completed soup into warm bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or crunchy croutons for added flair. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple salad, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies both hunger and spirit.
How to Serve Split Pea Soup with Ham
Serving split pea soup with ham is all about enhancing the experience. Ladle the hot soup into substantial bowls, ensuring each serving is packed with a good amount of split peas and ham. For a delightful touch, garnish your soup with freshly chopped parsley. This brightens the dish, adding both color and a fresh flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich soup.
You might also choose to accompany the soup with a side of crusty artisanal bread or some homemade croutons. The texture of these sides beautifully complements the creamy soup, making each bite an enjoyable journey. If you want to make the meal even heartier, consider serving the soup with a simple garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. The refreshing crunch of the salad balances the warm and thick soup perfectly.
Make your serving presentation feel special by using pre-warmed bowls, which helps keep the soup at an ideal serving temperature. If you have guests, don’t hesitate to offer extra toppings, like additional parsley, croutons, or even a dash of hot sauce for those seeking an extra kick. This soup is simple to share and creates a warm atmosphere, perfect for gathering around the table.
Expert Tips: Split Pea Soup with Ham
To make the most out of your split pea soup with ham, consider these expert tips that can elevate your cooking game. First, take your time with the sautéing of the vegetables. A little extra time allows even more flavors to develop, resulting in a deeper taste. Ensure you chop your vegetables into uniform sizes; this promotes even cooking and texture in your soup.
When it comes to split peas, remember to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot. This step removes any debris and excess starch that could interfere with the soup’s texture. Also, don’t rush the simmering step. It’s essential for the split peas to break down and create that signature creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot, which can spoil the flavor if you let it burn.
Feel free to adjust the liquid amount according to your preference. You might like a thicker soup, or perhaps you prefer it a bit more soupy—this recipe is forgiving and allows for personal tweaks. Before serving, ensure to check your seasonings. Taste it several times throughout the cooking process to see if it needs more salt or pepper for the perfect finish.
Lastly, if you’re in a hurry, consider using a slow cooker for a hands-off approach. Just sauté the vegetables, add all ingredients, and let your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.
How to Store Split Pea Soup with Ham
When it comes to storing split pea soup with ham, the process is straightforward and allows for delicious leftovers. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. Be sure to portion it out into smaller containers for easy reheating later on.
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, ensuring you have quick meals on hand. If you prefer to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Split pea soup freezes well and can be stored for up to three months in the freezer. For freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and then reheat it in a pot over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if necessary to regain the desired consistency. Enjoying comforting split pea soup with ham multiple times is one of the great joys of making this dish!
Variation of Split Pea Soup with Ham
One of the wonderful aspects of split pea soup with ham is its versatility. You can play around with ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available. For a healthier twist, try using turkey leg or even smoked chicken instead of traditional ham. This option delivers a different flavor profile while still providing the savory, rich taste you crave.
If you love additional texture in your soup, consider adding diced potatoes during the cooking process. These starches will thicken the soup further and add an interesting mouthfeel. For a punch of color and sweetness, throw in a handful of diced bell peppers or some corn. You can also toss in frozen peas or spinach towards the end of cooking to increase nutritional content without making major changes to the flavor.
To spice things up, you might want to add a touch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce, introducing a zesty kick you might enjoy. For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika—that little addition can drastically alter the taste and make it memorable.
Lastly, if you aim for a purely vegetarian version, replace ham with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can still achieve an incredible depth of flavor using vegetable broth and smoked spices. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this delightful dish to your liking.
FAQ
What is split pea soup with ham?
Split pea soup with ham is a hearty dish made primarily from dried split peas, vegetables, and ham, simmered together to create a thick and flavorful soup.
How do I store split pea soup with ham?
Cool the soup completely and then store it in airtight containers. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for three months.
Can I freeze split pea soup with ham?
Yes, the soup freezes well! Be sure to use freezer-safe containers and remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make a vegetarian version of split pea soup?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and replace it with vegetable broth. Adding smoked paprika can bring a nice smoky flavor without using meat.
How long does split pea soup with ham take to cook?
The total active cooking time is about 60 to 75 minutes, depending on the tenderness of the split peas. It’s essential to let them simmer to thicken the soup properly.
Split Pea Soup with Ham
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing vegetables
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 ham bone or 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham For rich flavor
- 7-8 cups chicken broth or water Adjust for desired thickness
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper To taste
Optional Garnish
- chopped parsley For garnish
- croutons For garnishing
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking
- Stir in the rinsed split peas along with your choice of ham. Toss in the bay leaf and dried thyme.
- Pour in 7 cups of chicken broth or water, then give everything a thorough stir to combine.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot slightly, using a tilted lid to allow steam to escape, and let the soup simmer for 60 to 75 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup for a smoother texture.
- Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or croutons.
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