Cozy Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

There's something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of split pea and ham soup. The rich aroma wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. As you dig in, the smooth texture of the split peas melds perfectly with savory ham, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. perfect pairing with ham soup Whether it’s a rainy day or just one of those nights when the couch and a good movie call your name, this soup is the ultimate warm hug.

I remember the first time I tried my grandmother's split pea and ham soup recipe. She stirred her pot with all the love in the world, and each spoonful tasted like home. It was an instant classic at family gatherings, always disappearing faster than you could say "more please." Now, I’ve made it my mission to recreate that magic in my kitchen for everyone to enjoy. slow cooker lentil soup variation Get ready for a culinary adventure that’ll have you dreaming of more!

Ingredients for Split pea and ham soup recipe

complementary creamy tomato soup.

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

• Split Peas: Choose green or yellow split peas; they both work beautifully in this recipe. Rinse them well before using.
• Ham Hock: This is the secret weapon! The rich flavor from the ham hock infuses the soup with savory goodness.
• Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the flavor; chop it finely so it blends seamlessly into the soup.
• Carrots: Diced carrots bring sweetness and color to your soup; use fresh ones for optimal flavor.
• Celery: Chopped celery gives a delightful crunch and aromatic quality; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds an irresistible aroma; fresh garlic will elevate your soup’s flavor profile.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while enriching flavors; homemade is best if you have it!
• Bay Leaves: These leaves add complexity; remember to remove them before serving!
• Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme pairs perfectly with ham and peas; use sparingly if using dried.

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

How to Make Split pea and ham soup recipe

For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing your split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dust or debris that may linger from packaging.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Throw in your chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about five minutes until softened and fragrant—the smell will be enough to make you swoon!

Step 3: Add Split Peas

Once your veggies are looking good, stir in the rinsed split peas along with your ham hock. Toss in bay leaves and sprinkle thyme over everything like you're seasoning magic into existence.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Now comes the good part! Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything by an inch or so—about six cups should do it. Bring this glorious mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about an hour until those peas are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally; you want all those flavors mingling beautifully!

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove the ham hock once cooked through (it should easily shred) and discard any bones or skin. Shred any remaining meat back into your soup for added richness. Taste-test for seasoning—add salt and pepper as needed.

Serve warm and enjoy each spoonful of comfort food bliss that's perfect for chilly nights or lazy afternoons! Transfer to bowls garnished with fresh herbs if you're feeling fancy—it'll impress even those picky eaters at your table! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery for great flavor. Add the split peas and ham, then cover with broth. Simmer until tender, stirring occasionally for the best texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this split pea and ham soup recipe by adding potatoes for heartiness or spices like cumin for an extra kick. Swap out the ham for turkey or even bacon if you want more smokiness.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Sharing my first experience making this split pea and ham soup brings back fond memories of friends gathered around my kitchen table, savoring every last drop while debating if I should open a restaurant!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for a split pea and ham soup recipe?

To make a delicious split pea and ham soup, you will need split peas, diced ham, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and vegetable broth. You can also add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper for flavor. hearty minestrone soup option This combination creates a hearty dish that warms you up on cold days. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste further if you prefer. Always rinse the split peas to remove any dirt before cooking.

How long does it take to prepare a split pea and ham soup recipe?

Preparing a split pea and ham soup takes about 15 minutes of active cooking time. However, allow for at least an hour of simmering to ensure the peas become tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. If using dried split peas, they usually cook in about 45 minutes to an hour. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend part of the soup after cooking.

Can I freeze split pea and ham soup?

Yes, you can definitely freeze your split pea and ham soup! After it cools down, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will maintain its flavor for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or microwave. This makes it a convenient meal prep option for busy days.

What are some variations of the split pea and ham soup recipe?

There are plenty of ways to customize your split pea and ham soup recipe! You can experiment with different vegetables like potatoes or leeks for added texture. Some people enjoy adding spices such as cumin or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor. For a vegetarian version, substitute ham with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke to keep that savory taste without meat.

Conclusion for Split pea and ham soup recipe:

In summary, making a flavorful split pea and ham soup is simple and rewarding. Gather essential ingredients like split peas, ham, vegetables, and seasonings to create this comforting dish. The cooking process is straightforward yet allows for personal touches through various ingredient options. Whether served fresh or frozen for later use, this soup remains a beloved choice during chilly seasons. Enjoy your homemade creation!

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Split Pea and Ham Soup

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• Author: Nicole Lopez
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm your soul with a bowl of homemade split pea and ham soup. This hearty classic combines the earthy flavors of split peas with savory ham and aromatic vegetables, creating a nourishing meal perfect for chilly evenings. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this comforting soup is ideal for cozy nights in or sharing with loved ones.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green or yellow split peas, rinsed
• 1 ham hock (about 1 pound)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Rinse the split peas under cold water until clear.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the rinsed split peas and ham hock; add bay leaves and thyme.
4. Pour in chicken broth to cover by an inch; bring to a boil then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour until peas are tender.
6. Remove the ham hock; shred any meat back into the soup and discard bones. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For richer flavor, use a smoked ham hock. Feel free to customize by adding potatoes or spices like cumin for extra depth. This soup freezes well for up to three months—perfect for meal prep!