Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

Welcome to the hearty and delicious world of split pea and ham soup. A dish that warms you up in the cold, it's a classic comfort food that's simple yet flavorful. It's packed with protein-rich split peas and succulent ham, with a little bit of veggies thrown in for good measure.

Photos of Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

The key ingredients for this recipe are split peas and ham bone which you might not always have in your pantry. Split peas are dried, peeled and split green or yellow peas, and they're commonly used in soups. They are rich in protein and fiber, and you can usually find them in the dried beans section of your supermarket. As for the ham bone, it's responsible for the soup's rich and meaty flavor. You can usually find one at a butcher shop, or you might have one left over from a roasted or boiled ham.

Ingredients for Split Pea and Ham Soup

Ham bone: It provides a rich, meaty flavor to the soup. If you don't have it, smoked ham hocks or a ham shank can be used as a substitute.

Onions: They add a sweet, caramel undertone to the soup.

Garlic cloves: They give a slight spicy, pungent kick, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.

Ground black pepper: It adds a spicy, aromatic touch.

Split peas: They are the main ingredient of the soup, giving it a creamy texture and a savory-sweet flavor.

Carrots: They add a sweet flavor and vibrant color to the soup.

One reader, Elly Lazo says:

This split pea and ham soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the texture is perfect. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that's easy to make. I love how the ham bone adds depth to the broth. It's definitely a new favorite in my household!

Elly Lazo

Key Techniques for Mastering Split Pea and Ham Soup

How to prepare the ham bone: Place the ham bone in a large pot over high heat. Add water to cover, bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and let simmer overnight.

How to clean the stock: Allow the cooked ham bone to cool, then clean the stock by discarding the bone, excess fat, and any cartilage. Return any good ham meat to the pot and bring back to a boil.

How to simmer the soup: Add the onion, garlic, and ground black pepper to the pot and allow to simmer for 1 hour. Pour in the split peas and carrots, then simmer for at least 1 more hour to allow the peas to break down.

How to season the soup: Stir the soup well and season to taste before serving warm.

How To Make Split Pea and Ham Soup

The combination of peas, carrots, and leftover ham in this ham soup makes for a delicious low-cost meal best served with some crusty bread on the side.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 10 hours

Total: 10 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbham bone,leftover, with meat attached
1cuponions,chopped
2garlic cloves,minced
2tspfreshly ground black pepper
1lbdried split peas
1cupcarrots,chopped

Instructions

Place the ham bone in a large pot over high heat. Add the water to cover, bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let simmer overnight.
Allow to cool and clean the stock, discarding the bone, excess fat, and any cartilage. Return any good ham meat to the pot and bring back to a boil.
Add the onion, garlic and ground black pepper and allow to simmer for 1 hour.
Pour in the split peas and the carrots and allow to simmer for at least 1 more hour to allow the peas to break down. Stir together well and season to taste.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 316.75kcal
Fat: 6.32g
Saturated Fat: 1.92g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.08g
Carbohydrates: 40.32g
Fiber: 15.39g
Sugar: 6.15g
Protein: 26.23g
Cholesterol: 34.59mg
Sodium: 482.73mg
Calcium: 37.92mg
Potassium: 747.49mg
Iron: 3.41mg
Vitamin A: 132.60µg
Vitamin C: 3.63mg

Elevate Your Split Pea and Ham Soup with This Simple Technique

When preparing your split pea and ham soup, it's important to remember that the longer you allow the soup to simmer, the more flavorful it will become. The slow cooking process allows the flavors from the ham bone and split peas to meld together, creating a rich and hearty soup. Additionally, soaking your split peas overnight can reduce cooking time and lead to a smoother soup consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Split Pea and Ham Soup

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use a slow cooker: Let the soup simmer in a slow cooker to save time and effort while still achieving a rich, flavorful result.

Quick soak: Instead of overnight soaking, cover the split peas with boiling water and let them sit for an hour to soften before cooking.

Blender shortcut: Use an immersion blender to quickly and easily puree the soup to the desired consistency.

Leftover ham: Utilize leftover ham from a previous meal to cut down on prep time and add depth of flavor to the soup.

Freeze for later: Make a large batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient future meals.

Substitute Ingredients For Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

ham bone - Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey leg can provide a similar smoky flavor and richness to the soup as a ham bone.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle depth to the soup.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a similar flavor with a more convenient form.
dried split peas - Substitute with lentils: Lentils can be used as a substitute for split peas, offering a similar texture and earthy flavor to the soup.
carrots - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can add a touch of sweetness and a creamy texture to the soup, similar to the effect of carrots.

Presentation Tips for a Delightful Split Pea and Ham Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting the split pea and ham soup, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the soup and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of sophistication.
Incorporate texture: Add a delightful crunch to the dish by serving it with a side of warm, crusty baguette or croutons. This not only adds a textural element but also provides a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
Highlight the ham: Showcase the star ingredient by finely dicing some of the succulent ham and using it as a garnish. This not only adds a pop of flavor but also emphasizes the essence of the dish.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that the soup is seasoned to perfection. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of lemon juice can help to elevate the flavors and bring a harmonious balance to the dish.
Artful drizzle: Finish the presentation with a delicate drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful, artistic flair to the dish. This final touch will impress the judges and elevate the overall dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Split Pea and Ham Soup

Large pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is essential for simmering the soup and ensuring even heat distribution.
Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for chopping the onions, garlic, and carrots.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping the vegetables and ham.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup as it simmers, and it won't scratch the pot.
Soup ladle: A soup ladle is useful for serving the finished split pea and ham soup.
Stock pot: A stock pot is needed for simmering the ham bone to create a flavorful broth for the soup.
Strainer: A strainer is useful for cleaning the stock and removing any impurities from the broth.

Storing and Freezing Split Pea and Ham Soup for Later Enjoyment

Allow the split pea and ham soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure the soup maintains its quality.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The soup may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little water or broth when reheating.
To freeze the soup, follow these steps:
1. Divide the cooled soup into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
2. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents to keep track of your frozen inventory.
3. Place the containers or bags in the freezer, ensuring they lie flat for even freezing and easy stacking.
4. Split pea and ham soup can be frozen for up to 6 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen soup, follow these reheating instructions:
1. Remove the soup from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you need to thaw it more quickly, place the container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the soup is thawed.
2. Transfer the thawed soup to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. Add a little water or broth if the soup seems too thick.
3. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
To maintain the best quality and flavor, avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the soup. If you plan on consuming only a portion at a time, consider freezing the soup in smaller, individual servings.

The Best Ways to Reheat Split Pea and Ham Soup

Reheat the split pea and ham soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. This method allows for even heating and helps to maintain the soup's original texture.
If the soup has thickened during storage, add a small amount of water or chicken broth to thin it out while reheating. Adjust the amount of liquid based on your desired consistency.
For a quicker reheating option, use the microwave. Transfer the desired portion of soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated through.
If you have stored the ham separately from the soup, add it to the saucepan or microwave bowl when reheating to allow the flavors to meld together once again.
Taste the reheated soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may find that the flavors have intensified during storage, so a little extra black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can help to brighten the taste.
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the reheated soup using an immersion blender or countertop blender. This will create a smoother consistency while still retaining some of the hearty, chunky elements of the original soup.
If you have a large quantity of leftover soup, consider reheating only the portion you plan to serve. This helps to maintain the quality of the remaining soup and prevents it from being subjected to multiple reheating cycles.

Fascinating Facts About Split Pea and Ham Soup

Split pea and ham soup is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed that the soup originated in Europe, where peas were a staple food. The soup gained popularity in the United States during the colonial period and has remained a beloved dish ever since. Split peas are not only delicious but also highly nutritious, as they are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This hearty soup is a perfect way to warm up on a cold day and is a great way to use up leftover ham.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is Split Pea and Ham Soup Cost-Effective?

This split pea and ham soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as split peas and ham bone, are budget-friendly and readily available. With minimal additional ingredients required, this recipe offers a hearty and nutritious meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $10. The versatility of the soup allows for variations, making it a valuable addition to any household's recipe repertoire. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Split Pea and Ham Soup Healthy?

The split pea and ham soup recipe is a hearty and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe relies heavily on ham, which is high in sodium and saturated fat. Consuming too much of these can contribute to health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease.
The recipe doesn't include a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
The cooking process involves simmering the ingredients for an extended period, which may lead to the loss of some nutrients.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients like split peas, which are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, and carrots, which provide beta-carotene and other nutrients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use a leaner cut of ham or replace some of the ham with turkey or chicken to reduce the saturated fat and sodium content
Increase the amount and variety of vegetables in the soup, such as adding celery, potatoes, or leafy greens like spinach or kale
Use low-sodium broth instead of water to add flavor without increasing the sodium content significantly
Experiment with adding herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor without relying on salt
Serve the soup with a side salad or whole-grain bread to increase the overall nutrient content of the meal

Editor's Opinion: Why Split Pea and Ham Soup is a Must-Try

This split pea and ham soup recipe is a classic comfort food that is hearty and flavorful. The slow simmering of the ham bone creates a rich and savory broth, while the addition of onions, garlic, and carrots adds depth to the soup. The use of dried split peas provides a creamy texture and earthy flavor. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of ingredients and cooking techniques, resulting in a delicious and satisfying soup that is perfect for a cozy meal.

Enhance Your Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread with a golden crust and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing and garnished with mint leaves.

Delicious Alternatives to Split Pea and Ham Soup

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: A creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful alfredo sauce.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: A healthy and satisfying salad that features a colorful mix of roasted vegetables and protein-packed quinoa, all tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.

Berry Cobbler: A classic dessert that showcases sweet and juicy berries topped with a buttery, golden-brown cobbler crust.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Split Pea and Ham Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful caprese skewers are a fresh and light appetizer option. Alternating cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on skewers, they are drizzled with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, using a traditional method to create a hearty and flavorful split pea and ham soup. The use of a real ham bone ensures a rich and authentic flavor, while the addition of onions, garlic, and freshly ground black pepper enhances the taste profile. The inclusion of dried split peas and carrots adds a nutritious and wholesome element to the dish. With a focus on quality ingredients and time-honored techniques, this recipe promises a satisfying and comforting dining experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with making Split Pea and Ham Soup in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any variations or tips you may have for this classic comfort dish!

FAQ:

What is the best way to cook the ham bone for this soup?

The best way to cook the ham bone for this soup is to place it in a large pot, cover it with water, and let it simmer overnight. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and infuse into the soup.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham bone?

While the traditional recipe calls for a ham bone, you can also use smoked ham hocks or bacon to add a similar smoky flavor to the soup. However, the ham bone provides a rich depth of flavor that is unique to this soup.

How long should I simmer the soup after adding the split peas and carrots?

After adding the split peas and carrots, it's best to simmer the soup for at least an additional hour. This allows the peas to break down and thicken the soup while the carrots add a touch of sweetness.

Can I make this soup in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and reheated later. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting for a day or two. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little water if needed to adjust the consistency.

How should I store any leftover soup?

Leftover soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.