Comforting Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe to Savor

Split Pea Soup with Ham is a warm hug in a bowl, packed with hearty flavors and comforting textures. Imagine the inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen, as vibrant green peas transform into a luscious, creamy concoction that warms the soul.

Now, picture yourself curled up on a chilly evening, savoring every sip of this delightful soup. It’s the kind of dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners, where laughter mingles with the scent of ham simmering in the pot.

I’ll never forget the first time I made this soup; my friends were fighting over the last bowl, declaring it “life-changing.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Split Peas: Use dried green or yellow split peas; they create that irresistible creamy texture once cooked.

• Ham Hock: A flavorful addition that lends a savory depth to your soup; choose one with plenty of meat attached.

• Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add a touch of natural sweetness; chop them finely for even cooking.

• Celery: Provides a wonderful crunch and aromatic flavor; use fresh stalks for maximum taste.

• Onion: A must-have base flavor; sauté until translucent to release its natural sweetness.

• Garlic: Adds an aromatic punch; minced garlic brings out the best flavors in your soup.

• Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing overall flavor.

• Bay Leaf: Just one leaf imparts a subtle earthy note; remember to remove it before serving!

• Pepper and Salt: Season to taste; adjust after cooking for optimal flavor balance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Split Pea Soup with Ham

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing your split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Chop your onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces – this helps them cook evenly.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until they soften and smell heavenly.

Add Your Split Peas and Broth: Stir in your rinsed split peas along with vegetable broth and bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Add The Ham Hock : Lower the heat to simmer and nestle the ham hock into your pot. Cover and let it cook for about 1-1.5 hours or until peas are tender.

Blend for Creaminess (Optional): If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot until smooth. You can also leave it chunky – it’s totally up to you!

Season and Serve!: Remove the ham hock from your pot; shred any meat off it back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste before ladling into bowls.

Enjoy this heartwarming masterpiece that not only fills your belly but also feeds your soul!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add diced ham and cook until golden before incorporating split peas and broth. This sequence builds layers of flavor, making your soup much more delicious.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your split pea soup! Swap in turkey for ham or throw in some carrots and celery for added nutrition. Experimenting with different herbs like thyme or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate your dish’s flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover split pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up on the stove or microwave, ensuring it stays creamy without drying out.

Sharing a memorable moment when I made this soup for my family’s holiday gathering reminds me how food brings us together. Their delighted faces after tasting it made every effort worth it!

FAQ

What type of ham is best for Split Pea Soup with Ham?

For the best flavor, use a smoked ham hock or diced leftover ham from holiday meals. These options impart a rich taste that complements the split peas beautifully.

Can I use dried split peas instead of frozen ones?

Absolutely! Dried split peas work wonderfully in this recipe; just remember to rinse them before cooking. They may require slightly longer cooking times but yield delicious results.

How can I thicken my Split Pea Soup with Ham?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or traditional blender. This adds creaminess while retaining some texture from the peas.

Is it possible to freeze Split Pea Soup with Ham?

Yes! Divide cooled soup into portions and store them in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.

Conclusion for Split Pea Soup with Ham

Split Pea Soup with Ham is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. By following these tips on preparation, customization, and storage, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with loved ones, this hearty soup is sure to delight everyone around the table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Split Pea Soup with Ham

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• Author: Rachel
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Split Pea Soup with Ham is a comforting dish that warms the soul with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This delightful soup combines tender split peas, savory ham, and fresh vegetables into a hearty bowl that’s perfect for chilly nights. Ideal for family gatherings or meal prep, this recipe ensures everyone around the table will be asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dried green or yellow split peas
• 1 ham hock (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse split peas under cold water until clear.
2. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add carrots and celery; cook until softened.
4. Stir in split peas, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Nestle the ham hock into the pot, reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for about 1-1.5 hours until peas are tender.
6. Optional: Blend part of the soup for creaminess or leave it chunky.
7. Remove the ham hock; shred meat back into soup. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 20mg