Hearty Ham and Split Pea Soup: A Comforting Classic

Few things are as satisfying on a chilly day as a bowl of thick, flavorful split pea soup. When you add ham to the mix, you elevate this classic dish to a whole new level of comforting deliciousness. This recipe for Ham and Split Pea Soup is a time-honored favorite, perfect for using up leftover holiday ham or for a simple, hearty meal any time of year. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a healthy and budget-friendly option. This guide will provide a step-by-step walk through to create a wonderful pot of soup.

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Split Pea Soup

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is incredibly filling and warming, perfect for cold weather.
• Flavorful: The combination of ham, split peas, and aromatic vegetables creates a deeply savory and satisfying flavor.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup is easy to prepare.
• Budget-Friendly: Split peas are an inexpensive source of protein and fiber, making this a cost-effective meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.
• Versatile: Easily customizable to your preferences by adding different vegetables, spices, or herbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Ham and Split Pea Soup:

• 1 pound dried green split peas: The foundation of the soup, providing texture and flavor.
• 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Adds richness and depth of flavor. You can also use water, but broth is recommended for better taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Adds aromatic sweetness.
• 2 carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and color.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds savory depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For pungent flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram: Complements the thyme with a slightly sweeter, warmer flavor.
• 1 bay leaf: Infuses the soup with a subtle, aromatic flavor (remove before serving).
• 1-2 cups cooked ham, diced: The star of the show, adding savory, smoky flavor. Leftover ham from the holidays is perfect.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance the flavors of the soup.
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, croutons, a swirl of cream, or a dollop of sour cream.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup. A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: For chopping vegetables and ham.
• Knife: For chopping vegetables and ham.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Ladle: For serving the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make the perfect Ham and Split Pea Soup:

Step 1: Rinse the Split Peas

Place the dried split peas in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Pick through them, removing any debris or shriveled peas. While soaking split peas was once common, modern practices often skip this step, as the peas cook relatively quickly without pre-soaking. However, soaking them for a few hours (or overnight) can reduce cooking time slightly and may make them easier to digest for some people.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried marjoram to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Simmer

Add the rinsed split peas and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender and have broken down. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Note: The cooking time may vary depending on the age and quality of the split peas. Check the soup periodically and add more broth if it becomes too thick. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup once the peas are cooked.

Step 5: Add the Ham

Once the split peas are tender, add the diced ham to the pot. Stir to combine and heat through for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the ham flavor to meld with the soup.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt content, as ham can be quite salty. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, croutons, a swirl of cream, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Tips for the Best Ham and Split Pea Soup

• Use High-Quality Ham: The flavor of the ham will significantly impact the overall taste of the soup, so choose a good-quality ham. Leftover holiday ham, smoked ham hocks, or diced ham from the deli counter all work well.
• Don’t Overcook the Split Peas: While you want the split peas to be tender, avoid overcooking them to the point where they become mushy. Check the soup periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Adjust the Broth: The amount of broth you need may vary depending on the desired thickness of the soup. Add more broth if the soup becomes too thick during cooking.
• Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as potatoes, parsnips, or turnips. Add them along with the carrots and celery in Step 2.
• Add a Touch of Acidity: A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end can brighten the flavors of the soup.
• For a Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of ham.
• Make it in a Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients (except the ham) in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations and Additions

This Ham and Split Pea Soup recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations and additions to consider:

• Smoked Ham Hocks: Use smoked ham hocks instead of diced ham for a deeper, smokier flavor. Add the ham hocks along with the split peas and broth, and remove them before serving. Shred the meat from the ham hocks and return it to the soup.
• Bacon: Add crispy cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor and texture. Cook the bacon separately and crumble it over the soup before serving.
• Potatoes: Add diced potatoes for a heartier soup. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well.
• Parsnips: Add diced parsnips for a slightly sweet and earthy flavor.
• Turnips: Add diced turnips for a slightly bitter and peppery flavor.
• Spinach or Kale: Add fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika, to add a unique flavor profile.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or chives, can add a bright and fresh flavor to the soup. Add them at the end of cooking or as a garnish.
• Cream or Yogurt: A swirl of cream or yogurt can add richness and creaminess to the soup.
• Lemon Juice or Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can brighten the flavors of the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Split Pea Soup is a satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and nostalgic meal.
• Side Salad: Serve with a simple side salad for a lighter meal.
• Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic accompaniment to soup.
• Biscuits: Flaky biscuits are another great option for soaking up the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Leftover Ham and Split Pea Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat the soup in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on a recipe yielding 8 servings)

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 10-15g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Fiber: 15-20g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?

A: No, soaking split peas is not necessary for this recipe. However, soaking them for a few hours (or overnight) can reduce cooking time slightly and may make them easier to digest for some people.

Q: Can I use a different type of broth?

A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth. However, chicken broth will provide a richer flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of ham?

A: Yes, you can use any type of cooked ham you like. Leftover holiday ham, smoked ham hocks, or diced ham from the deli counter all work well.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How can I make this soup vegetarian?

A: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of ham.

Conclusion

This Ham and Split Pea Soup recipe is a comforting and flavorful classic that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade Ham and Split Pea Soup!