Split Pea Soup with Ham

Rich aromas of split peas and smoky ham combine in this substantial, warm recipe for Split Pea Soup with Ham. This soup is tasty and simple to make, making it the ideal choice for a cold day or a comfortable night in. Prepare yourself to savor a bowl of healthful deliciousness.

Tasting Notes

Expect a harmonious blend of creamy split peas, tender chunks of ham, and aromatic vegetables. The smokiness from the ham adds depth to the soup, making each spoonful a satisfying experience. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 ham hock or ham bone with meat
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Kitchen Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Rinse and sort the dried split peas.
   • Dice the ham and chop the vegetables.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in the soup pot over medium heat.
   • Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Peas and Ham:
   • Add split peas, ham hock or ham bone, diced ham, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot.
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
4. Simmer:
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
   • Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender and the ham falls off the bone.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Remove the ham bone or hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Discard bay leaves before serving.

Pro Tips

• For extra flavor, let the soup cool and refrigerate it overnight before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully.
• Use a mix of chicken and vegetable broth for a well-rounded taste.
• Experiment with different types of ham for unique flavor profiles.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian split pea soup.
• Smoked Turkey: Substitute ham with smoked turkey for a leaner alternative.
• Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the soup to achieve a creamier consistency.

FAQs