This warm pea and ham soup is a cozy dish perfect for cooler days. It’s made with green peas, tender ham, and simple spices, creating a tasty and comforting bowl.
There’s just something about the smell of this soup simmering that makes the whole house feel inviting, like a big warm hug. I love having it with crusty bread—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split Green Peas: These are the star of the soup. If you can’t find dried split peas, yellow split peas work too. Canned peas aren’t a good substitute, as they won’t provide the same texture.
Ham: A ham hock gives a deep flavor, but diced cooked ham is quicker and still delicious. If you’re vegetarian, try swapping with smoked tofu for a similar smokiness.
Broth: Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to check for saltiness!
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery are a classic flavor base, called mirepoix. You can use leeks or shallots for a sweeter taste if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Soup?
The texture of pea and ham soup is key to its satisfaction. Here’s how to achieve the right consistency:
- Start by simmering the soup gently for at least 1 hour. This helps the peas break down nicely.
- For smooth soup, use an immersion blender. If you like some chunks, puree just part of it.
- Don’t forget to adjust the thickness with extra broth or water if needed—better to start thick and add gradually.
With these tips, you’ll create a delightful and cozy pea and ham soup, perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every spoonful!
Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups dried split green peas, rinsed
- 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ham hock or 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Optional garnish: diced ham, fresh cracked black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 to 1.5 hours of cooking time. You’ll spend a little time chopping vegetables and letting everything simmer together. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon cooking session!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
If you’re using olive oil or butter, start by heating it in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Now, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for another minute, just until the garlic gets a bit fragrant. This step really adds flavor to your soup!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Next, stir in your rinsed split peas along with the ham hock (or your diced ham). Add the bay leaf and pour in the water or chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Let it Simmer:
Bring your mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours. You’re looking for the peas to become very soft and start breaking down.
5. Shred the Ham:
If you used a ham hock, carefully remove it from the pot after simmering. Shred any meat from the bone and return the meat back into the soup. If you used diced ham, you can skip this step!
6. Blend the Soup (Optional):
If you like a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, feel free to leave it as is or blend just half of it.
7. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season your soup! Add some salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference. If you find the soup is too thick, just stir in a little more water or broth until it reaches the consistency you like.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the soup hot, garnished with extra diced ham and a sprinkle of black pepper if you’d like. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread. Enjoy your comforting bowl of pea and ham soup!
This classic pea and ham soup is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Dried Peas Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Absolutely! Dried split green peas are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to rinse them before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add some smoked paprika for that smoky flavor to keep it deliciously satisfying!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just remember to leave some space in the container as it will expand when frozen.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your soup with additional veggies like potatoes, leeks, or even spinach. Just add them along with the other vegetables during the sautéing step.
