This Pea and Ham Soup is a classic comfort food, rich with the hearty taste of ham and the creamy texture of split peas. It’s a perfect combination of flavors that bring warmth to any chilly day. The soup’s natural green color, speckled with tender vegetables, is both inviting and satisfying, making each spoonful feel like a cozy embrace.
Packed with nourishing ingredients like peas, carrots, celery, and ham, this soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome meal. You can adjust the consistency by adding more stock for a lighter soup or leaving it thicker for a heartier version. Pair it with some warm crusty bread, and you have the ideal meal to enjoy with family or friends.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb (450g) ham hock or diced ham
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2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
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1 large onion, diced
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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8 cups (2 liters) chicken or vegetable stock
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1 bay leaf
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.
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Add the ham hock or diced ham to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Stir in the dried split peas, chicken or vegetable stock, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas have broken down and the soup has thickened.
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Once the soup is ready, remove the ham hock (if used) and discard the bone. If using diced ham, simply stir it back into the soup.
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Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Pea and Ham Soup: A Hearty Classic Comfort Food
Pea and Ham Soup is one of those dishes that feels like home – warm, comforting, and packed with flavors that remind us of cozy, chilly evenings. It’s the type of recipe that takes you back to childhood or brings back memories of family gatherings. This soup is not only delicious but also practical, as it’s easy to make and can feed a crowd or provide leftovers for several days. Whether you’re looking for a meal to warm you up during winter or just need something hearty to satisfy your hunger, Pea and Ham Soup is the perfect solution.
The Origins of Pea and Ham Soup
Pea and Ham Soup is often considered a traditional dish in many cultures, particularly in Europe. The use of split peas and ham in a soup has been around for centuries, as peas are a staple food that’s easy to grow, store, and cook. Historically, this dish has been enjoyed by both the rich and the poor. In medieval times, peas were a common ingredient in soups, while ham, often considered a delicacy, would be added to enrich the flavor. Over time, this humble yet hearty combination became a beloved comfort food, particularly in colder climates where warm, filling meals were needed to sustain people through long winters.
Why Pea and Ham Soup is So Popular
Pea and Ham Soup has gained widespread popularity for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly filling, thanks to the high-protein ham and the fiber-rich split peas. This makes it not only satisfying but also a great option for those looking for a meal that provides sustained energy. Second, it’s versatile. While the core ingredients—split peas and ham—remain consistent, the soup can be customized in countless ways. Some people prefer it thick, almost like a stew, while others enjoy it with a more brothy consistency. You can also add different vegetables, like potatoes, leeks, or parsnips, to enhance the flavor. Additionally, some recipes call for the use of ham hocks, while others use diced ham for a quicker preparation.
Health Benefits of Pea and Ham Soup
Not only is Pea and Ham Soup delicious, but it’s also quite nutritious. The combination of peas and ham provides a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, both of which help to keep you full and satisfied for longer periods. They’re also rich in vitamins like folate, vitamin K, and several B vitamins, all of which support overall health. Ham, particularly when chosen lean, can provide a good amount of protein and iron, which is essential for blood health and energy production.
The high fiber content in this soup also makes it beneficial for digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements and keep your digestive system running smoothly. If you’re looking for a meal that nourishes the body and provides long-lasting energy, Pea and Ham Soup is an excellent choice.
How to Make Pea and Ham Soup Your Own
One of the best things about Pea and Ham Soup is how easy it is to adjust to your taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking to make the soup a bit healthier, you can opt for lean ham or even turkey ham. If you’re on a plant-based diet, it’s possible to substitute the ham with a smoky-flavored vegetarian option or add more vegetables to make the dish more filling.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Thyme, bay leaves, and parsley are classic choices that complement the earthy flavors of peas and the savory notes of ham. If you want to add a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish without overpowering it.
Another way to change things up is by playing with the texture of the soup. For a thicker soup, simply reduce the amount of liquid and let the peas break down more as they cook. If you prefer a smoother, creamier consistency, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender, creating a velvety texture that’s perfect for those who love a creamy bowl of soup.
The Best Ways to Serve Pea and Ham Soup
Pea and Ham Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Traditionally, it’s served with crusty bread or a slice of buttered toast, perfect for dipping into the soup. The rich, salty flavors of the ham combined with the creamy peas create a mouthwatering experience when paired with freshly baked bread. For an extra indulgence, try serving the soup with a side of garlic bread or a warm baguette.
For a lighter touch, you can pair the soup with a fresh salad. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the soup, providing a nice contrast in flavors. If you’re looking for a more hearty meal, a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or potatoes, can complement the soup beautifully.
Pea and Ham Soup in Modern Kitchens
Today, Pea and Ham Soup is as relevant as ever. In modern kitchens, it remains a favorite for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator and even tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. The soup freezes beautifully too, making it an excellent dish for batch cooking. You can prepare a large pot of soup, store it in individual portions, and have a warm meal ready to go whenever you need it.
In fact, many people find that Pea and Ham Soup is a great go-to meal for busy weeks when they want something comforting and easy to reheat. It’s a dish that can be made in advance, allowing you to focus on other tasks or enjoy time with your family while dinner takes care of itself.
Conclusion
Pea and Ham Soup is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that warms the body and soul. Whether you’re making it for the first time or revisiting a beloved family recipe, this soup is bound to please. It’s simple, affordable, and adaptable, making it a great option for any occasion. With its rich history, impressive health benefits, and customizable flavors, Pea and Ham Soup is sure to remain a favorite for generations to come. So, next time you’re in need of a satisfying and hearty meal, consider whipping up a pot of this timeless classic. It’s more than just soup—it’s a bowl of nostalgia and warmth that brings people together.