Split Pea And Ham Soup
Split pea and ham soup is a classic comfort food that warms the heart and nourishes the soul. This thick, hearty dish combines tender split peas with savory ham, creating a delightful medley of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the delicious world of split pea and ham soup!
Ingredients
- 1 cup split green peas
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 smoked ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of split pea and ham soup contains approximately 220 calories, 15g of protein, 5g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 10g of fiber. This nutritional value is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the rinsed split peas to the pot.
- Place the ham hock or diced ham in the pot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
- Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ham hock with smoked paprika for flavor and use vegetable broth. Additionally, you can add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach to enhance the nutrition and taste.
Serving and Pairings
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a side of cornbread. For a complete meal, add a light dessert like fruit salad or a slice of cake.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a little water if it thickens too much.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the split peas can lead to grit in your soup.
- Overcooking may result in mushy peas; simmer until tender but not falling apart.
- Using too much salt early in cooking can make the soup overly salty; season at the end.
- Skipping the sautéing of vegetables can result in less flavor.
- Forget to remove the bay leaf before serving; it’s not edible!
Helpful Tips
- Use a combination of green and yellow split peas for color contrast.
- Let the soup sit for a while; it tastes even better the next day.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or water as needed.
FAQs
How long can I store split pea and ham soup?
You can store split pea and ham soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
What can I use instead of ham hock?
If you don’t have a ham hock, you can use diced ham, smoked sausage, or even a vegetarian substitute like liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Is split pea and ham soup healthy?
Yes, this soup is packed with protein and fiber from the split peas and ham, making it a nutritious option for a hearty meal.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, split pea and ham soup is a delicious and nourishing dish perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a favorite among families. Enjoy making this comforting soup, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones for a delightful meal experience.
Split Pea And Ham Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup split green peas
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 smoked ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the rinsed split peas to the pot.
- Place the ham hock or diced ham in the pot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
- Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.