Easy Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe
Cozy Up with a Bowl of Split Pea Soup with Ham
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day? This Split Pea Soup with Ham is the ultimate comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make! It’s a classic American dish that’s been passed down through generations, and for good reason. This recipe delivers a rich, creamy texture and a smoky ham flavor that will leave you wanting more.
We’ve taken the traditional split pea soup and streamlined the process without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. The combination of tender split peas, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a cozy weekend brunch.
What makes this Split Pea Soup special?
- Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a lovely touch.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
- Uses Simple Ingredients: You likely already have many of the ingredients on hand!
Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup:
- Soaking the Peas (Optional): While not essential, soaking the split peas for a few hours (or overnight) can help reduce cooking time. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot.
- Ham Hock vs. Diced Ham: A ham hock adds a deeper, smokier flavor to the soup. If using diced ham, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming too dry.
- Blending for Texture: The level of blending is up to you! Some people prefer a completely smooth soup, while others like a bit of texture. We recommend partially blending it for a creamy yet rustic consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and omit the ham. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor.
- Can I use an Instant Pot? Yes! Reduce the simmering time to about 25-30 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural pressure release.
- How do I store leftover soup? Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
- What can I serve with Split Pea Soup? Crusty bread for dipping is a must! A side salad or grilled cheese sandwich also pairs nicely.
- Is split pea soup good for you? Yes! It’s a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort! This Split Pea Soup with Ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and soul.
Split Pea Soup with Ham
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped carrots
- 2 celery stalks, chopped celery
- 1 pound split peas
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 ham hock or 8 ounces diced ham ham
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add split peas, chicken broth, ham hock (or diced ham), thyme, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 60 minutes, or until split peas are tender.
- Remove ham hock and shred the meat. Return the meat to the soup. If using diced ham, skip this step.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup to desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions to a blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
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