A Delicious Recipe for Split Pea Soup with Ham

Making split pea soup with ham is an easy and delicious way to warm up on a cold day. It’s a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations and can be tweaked to suit your personal preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this hearty soup is a great addition to your meal rotation.

To make split pea soup with ham, you’ll need just a few ingredients that are likely already in your pantry and fridge. The main ingredients are split peas, ham hocks or leftover ham, onions, carrots, celery, and chicken broth. With a little bit of time and patience, you’ll have a pot of flavorful soup that is perfect for lunch or dinner. So, let’s get started!

Introduction:

Split pea soup with ham is a classic comfort food that many people enjoy, especially during the colder months. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. This dish is also relatively easy to make, even for beginners. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about making split pea soup with ham that is both delicious and nutritious.

Section 1: The importance of using high-quality ingredients

1.1 Choosing the right split peas

When it comes to split pea soup, the quality of the split peas you use can make a big difference in the overall taste and texture. Look for split peas that are unprocessed and whole, without any added chemicals or preservatives. You can find high-quality split peas at most grocery stores or online.

1.2 Selecting the right ham

The ham is a crucial ingredient in split pea soup, so it’s important to choose a high-quality one. Consider using a ham hock or bone-in ham for the best flavor. You may also choose to use leftover ham from a previous meal. Whatever your choice is, make sure that the ham has a good amount of fat content as that will add an additional layer of flavor to the soup.

Section 2: Preparing the ingredients

2.1 Soaking the split peas

Before cooking the split peas, it’s usually recommended to soak them in water for a few hours or overnight. This helps to soften the peas and make them easier to cook. Simply add the split peas to a large bowl, cover them with water, and let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2.2 Preparing the ham

If you’re using a ham hock or bone-in ham, you’ll need to prepare it before adding it to the soup. Remove the meat from the bone and chop it into bite-sized pieces. You can also save the bone to use as a base for the broth.

Section 3: Cooking the soup

3.1 Cooking the split peas

Once the split peas have been soaked, drain them and rinse them thoroughly. Add them to a large pot with enough water to cover them completely. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and let the split peas cook for about an hour. Stir occasionally to ensure that they cook evenly.

3.2 Adding the ham

After the split peas have cooked for an hour, add the ham to the pot. Continue to cook the soup for another hour or until the split peas are tender and the ham is fully cooked and tender. Stir the soup regularly to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

3.3 Seasoning the soup

Once the soup is fully cooked, it’s time to add some seasoning. Salt and pepper are a given, but you can also add other seasonings like bay leaves or thyme. These herbs will give the soup a more complex flavor. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Section 4: Serving the split pea soup with ham

4.1 Plating the soup

Now that your split pea soup with ham is ready, you can serve it in a variety of ways. You can serve it as is or blend it to make it creamier. You can also add some croutons or shredded cheese on top for some added texture and flavor. Remember, the presentation is just as important as the taste.

4.2 Storing the leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the soup for later use. When reheating the soup, add a little bit of water to thin it out as it will naturally thicken when stored in the fridge or freezer.

Conclusion:
Split pea soup with ham is a classic dish that is easy to make and perfect for the colder months. Using high-quality ingredients and cooking them properly are the keys to making a delicious and nutritious split pea soup. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. So, go ahead, grab your apron, and start cooking!

Ingredients Needed to Make Split Pea Soup with Ham

To make a delicious pot of split pea soup with ham, you need to have a few ingredients on hand. The good news is that most of the ingredients are affordable and easily accessible at your local grocery store. Here are the essential ingredients you need to make your split pea soup with ham:

Ingredient 1: Dried Split Peas

Dried split peas (1 pound) are the heart and soul of this soup. Be sure to rinse and sort the peas before cooking to ensure that they are clean and free of small stones or debris. Split peas are high in fiber, protein, and low in fat, making them an excellent healthy addition to your meal plan.

Ingredient 2: Ham Hock or Ham Bone

The smoky flavor of a ham hock or ham bone adds depth to your soup. Choose a cut with plenty of meat and bone, as the bone’s marrow will give the soup a richer, creamier texture. Ham bones can usually be found at your local grocery store or butcher.

Ingredient 3: Carrots

Carrots add a subtle sweetness to the soup and provide a good source of nutrients like vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. Cut the carrots into small, bite-sized pieces to allow them to cook through without overpowering the other ingredients.

Ingredient 4: Onions

Onions (2 medium-sized) add flavor, texture, and richness to the soup base. Chop the onions finely and sauté them in oil or butter before adding them to the soup for a richer depth of flavor.

Ingredient 5: Celery

Celery (2 stalks) adds a refreshing, crunchy texture and fresh aroma to the soup. Cut the celery stalks into small pieces and add them to the soup along with the carrots and onions.

Ingredient 6: Garlic

Garlic (2 cloves) offers a warm, inviting aroma and taste to your soup. Finely chop the garlic and add it to the soup base to create a rich, savory broth.

Ingredient 7: Bay Leaves

Bay leaves (2-3 leaves) add an aromatic touch to your split pea soup, adding subtle flavors of earthy spice and sweet herbiness. Be sure to remove the bay leaves before serving the soup.

Ingredient 8: Thyme

Fresh thyme offers a beautiful, earthy aroma and flavor to the soup that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Sprinkle a few fresh thyme leaves into the soup before cooking it until it becomes soft and savory.

Ingredient 9: Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are essential for seasonings. Add salt and pepper to your soup to taste, being careful not to overdo it.

Ingredient 10: Water or Chicken Broth

Water or chicken broth are essential liquids for your soup. Chicken broth will add a richer flavor to the soup, but water is also fine for those on a budget. Be sure to add enough liquid to your soup to allow the split peas to become soft and tender.

In the above subheadings, we have presented a list of ingredients that you realize you need to accumulate to cook split pea soup with ham. These essential ingredients will make your soup healthier, more flavorful, and more fulfilling than anything else you’ve ever tasted. Be sure to gather your ingredients before getting started on the recipe to ensure that you have everything you need and save yourself potential frustration while cooking.

Ingredients for Split Pea Soup with Ham

Making a hearty split pea soup with ham is not only delicious but also nutritious. The dish can be a great way to warm up on a chilly day or make use of leftover ham during holidays. Here are the essential ingredients for making split pea soup with ham:

Preparation for Split Pea Soup with Ham

Now that you have all your ingredients, it is time to start preparing your split pea soup with ham. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Soak the Split Peas

Before starting, soak the split peas in cold water and let them sit for about an hour. This process will not only soften the peas but also reduce the cooking time and prevent the soup from becoming too thick.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until soft. This process will add flavor to the soup.

Step 3: Add Ham and Seasoning

Add the ham, bay leaves, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to the pot. Cook until the ham is browned.

Step 4: Cook the Split Peas

Drain the split peas and add them to the pot. Stir the ingredients and pour in the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for about an hour or until the split peas are tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaves and serve hot.

Benefits of Split Pea Soup with Ham

Split pea soup with ham is a great source of nutrients for the body. Here are some benefits of this delicious soup:

1. High in Fiber

Split peas are rich in fiber, which helps regulate the digestive system and prevent constipation.

2. Boosts Immune System

Split peas contain vitamins that help boost the immune system and protect the body from infections and diseases.

3. High in Protein

Ham is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

4. Lowers Cholesterol

Peas contain a type of fiber called soluble fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol levels in the body.

5. Reduces inflammation

Peas contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent chronic diseases such as arthritis.

Conclusion

Split pea soup with ham is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. By following the steps above, you can make a hearty soup that is perfect for cold winter nights or any time of the year. So, give it a try and enjoy the benefits of this delicious soup!

Cheers to a Delicious Meal: Split Pea Soup with Ham

Congratulations on making a tasty pot of split pea soup with ham! I hope this recipe is a new favorite for you and your loved ones. Remember, this hearty soup is perfect for chilly nights or as a comforting meal any time of the year. Thanks for reading and I hope you come back for more delicious recipes soon!