When the aroma of split pea soup with ham wafts through your kitchen, it’s like a warm hug on a cold day. Each spoonful brings forth a creamy texture, peppered with tender peas and savory ham that makes even the most discerning food critic raise an eyebrow in delight.
Picture this: you’re cozied up by the fireplace, snow gently falling outside while you sip on a bowl of this delightful soup. It’s the kind of dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in. With every bite, you’ll be transported to your grandmother’s kitchen, where love and laughter filled the air as she stirred her famous pot of split pea soup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting split pea soup with ham is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing even novice cooks to impress their families
- The flavor profile is rich and hearty, combining smoky ham with earthy peas for a delightful taste experience
- Its vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any table setting, making it look as good as it tastes
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this soup can be served as a starter or main course
When I first made this split pea soup with ham for my family, I remember my kids’ faces lighting up as they tasted it. They devoured bowls like there was no tomorrow and even asked for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Green Split Peas: These are the stars of the show; choose fresh ones for optimal texture and flavor.
Smoked Ham Hock: This adds depth and richness; pick one that’s nice and meaty for maximum flavor.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color; dice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Celery: Celery adds crunch and aromatic goodness; opt for bright green stalks for best results.
Onion: Use a yellow onion for its natural sweetness; sauté until translucent to release its flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves create that irresistible aroma; chop finely to maximize their pungency.
Vegetable Broth or Water: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
Bay Leaves: These add subtle herbal notes; don’t forget to remove them before serving!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make split pea soup with ham
Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery until they turn soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic and stir it around until it’s aromatic—about 1 minute should do. Be careful not to let it burn!
Add Split Peas: Pour in your rinsed green split peas along with the smoked ham hock. Stir everything together so those flavors mingle beautifully.
Pour in Broth: Add vegetable broth (or water) until everything is generously covered. Bring it to a boil over high heat before reducing it to a simmer.
Add Seasonings: Toss in bay leaves along with salt and pepper. Let your soup simmer gently uncovered for about 60-75 minutes until peas are tender.
Taste Test: Once cooked, remove the ham hock from the pot. Shred any meat back into the soup and discard bones/skin. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Now you have an amazing bowl of split pea soup with ham that will keep your belly warm! Enjoy each spoonful as laughter fills your home during mealtime!
You Must Know
- This split pea soup with ham is a comforting dish that warms the soul
- The vibrant green color and smoky aroma create an inviting atmosphere
- Serve it with crusty bread for a meal that feels like a hug on a chilly day
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add peas, broth, and ham. Simmer for about an hour for maximum flavor and creamy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or toss in some diced carrots for extra sweetness. Experiment with spices to find your ideal flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover split pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding water if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before serving
- Use smoked ham hocks for deeper flavor
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving!
Sharing this split pea soup with ham recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone would fight over the last bowl. It’s always a hit!
FAQ
How long does split pea soup with ham last in the fridge?
Split pea soup can last up to five days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze split pea soup with ham?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of my soup?
Consider adding spices like thyme or bay leaves, or even some diced potatoes for texture!
Split Pea Soup with Ham
Indulge in a warm bowl of split pea soup with ham, the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This creamy and hearty dish combines tender green split peas with smoky ham, offering a delightful flavor experience that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights by the fire. Perfect as a starter or main course, this soup is not only nourishing but also visually appealing with its vibrant green hue. Easy to prepare, it’s sure to impress even novice cooks!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup green split peas
- 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 lb)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.
- Stir in rinsed green split peas and the smoked ham hock.
- Pour in vegetable broth until ingredients are covered; bring to a boil then reduce to simmer.
- Add bay leaves along with salt and pepper; simmer uncovered for 60–75 minutes until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham hock, shred any meat back into the soup, discard bones/skin, and adjust seasoning before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For a vegetarian option, substitute the ham hock with additional vegetables or smoked paprika. To enhance creaminess, blend part of the soup before serving.
