There’s something about a steaming bowl of pea and ham soup that just wraps you in a cozy hug, especially on those chilly days when you want nothing more than to feel warm and nourished. I remember making this comforting soup on rainy afternoons, the rich, smoky aroma of the ham mingling with the earthy split peas filling my kitchen and making my heart sing. It’s a simple dish, but trust me, the flavors are anything but ordinary! The ham adds a wonderful depth while the split peas create that creamy texture we all crave. Plus, it’s so hearty that it can easily be the star of your dinner table! Seriously, once you make this pea and ham soup, I guarantee it’ll become a go-to favorite for you too.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups split peas, rinsed
- 1 pound ham hock
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Pea and Ham Soup
Making this delicious pea and ham soup is easier than you might think! First, rinse your split peas under cold water—this helps remove any dust or debris. In a large pot, combine the rinsed peas, ham hock, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, vegetable broth, water, and bay leaf. You’ll want to make sure everything’s snug in the pot!
Now, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Oh, that smell is just heavenly! Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours. This is when the magic happens—the split peas will soften and break down, creating that lovely creamy texture. Just give it a stir occasionally, and don’t forget to savor the aromas wafting through your kitchen!
When the peas are soft and tender, it’s time to remove the ham hock. Carefully shred the meat and return it to the pot. This adds an extra boost of flavor and heartiness to your soup. Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust it to your liking—I often find that a little extra pepper adds a nice kick!
And that’s it! Serve your soup hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth and rich flavors. Your kitchen will be the coziest spot in the house!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are approximate figures for one serving of pea and ham soup. It’s always a good idea to check the labels if you’re tracking your intake closely.
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty and filling, it warms you from the inside out.
- Healthy ingredients packed with protein and fiber.
- Simple, comforting flavors that everyone will love.
- Great for using up leftover ham, reducing food waste.
- Freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it later!
Tips for Success
To make your pea and ham soup truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the simmering process—allowing the soup to cook low and slow for that 1 to 1.5 hours is crucial. This gives the peas time to break down and develop that creamy texture we all love. If you find the soup too thick for your liking, just stir in a little more water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Also, taste as you go! Adjusting the salt and pepper toward the end helps you hit that perfect flavor balance. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick! Trust me, these small tweaks will elevate your soup into something special. Enjoy every spoonful!
Variations of Pea and Ham Soup
If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your pea and ham soup! For a little zing, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor. You can also toss in some diced potatoes for extra heartiness or even throw in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving for a pop of color and nutrition. If you’re a fan of spices, consider adding some cumin or coriander for a warm twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal truly delightful, I love pairing my pea and ham soup with some crusty bread or warm rolls. There’s nothing better than dipping a slice of bread into that creamy goodness! A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup beautifully, adding a fresh crunch. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, why not whip up some cheesy garlic bread? Trust me, it’s the perfect match! Whatever you choose, these sides will round out your meal and keep you cozy all evening long.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover pea and ham soup is super simple! Just let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those comforting flavors again soon! If you want to save it for later, this soup freezes beautifully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it’s thickened up too much, don’t worry—just add a splash of water or broth to get it back to that perfect creamy consistency!
FAQ Section
Can I use dried peas instead of split peas?
Yes, you can! Just soak the dried peas overnight and adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to become tender.
How long does pea and ham soup last in the fridge?
Your pea and ham soup will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. Just make sure it’s cooled before storing!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just combine all your ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s a great way to let those flavors develop!
What can I substitute for the ham hock?
If you don’t have a ham hock, you can use diced smoked sausage or even bacon for that smoky flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.
Is pea and ham soup gluten-free?
Yes! This pea and ham soup recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy without worry!
Pea and Ham Soup: 5 Secrets for Cozy Comfort Cooking
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting pea and ham soup that warms you up.
Ingredients
- 2 cups split peas
- 1 pound ham hock
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water.
- In a large pot, combine split peas, ham hock, onion, carrots, celery, broth, water, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, until peas are soft.
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This soup freezes well.
- Add more water for a thinner consistency.
- Use leftover ham for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pea and ham soup
