Split pea soup with ham is a hearty and wholesome dish that has passed down the generations. Bursting with flavor, this classic comfort food delivers a satisfying meal that warms the soul. The soup's primary ingredients -split peas and ham- create a rich, creamy base while the carrots and onions add a delightful crunch, making this dish a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The key ingredient that might not be commonly found in your pantry is the smoked ham hock. This is a particular cut from the hog's leg that has been smoked and cured. It lends a distinct, smoky flavor to the soup. When you're at the supermarket, make sure to look for it in the meat section. If you can't find a smoked ham hock, a good alternative could be smoked sausage or bacon.
Ingredients For Split Pea Soup with Ham
Dried split peas: These are field peas that are dried, peeled, and split, which enables faster cooking. They are rich in protein and fiber.
Olive oil: A great cooking base that adds a subtle depth of flavor to the soup.
Onion: Offering a mild and sweet flavor, onions are fantastic for giving your soup more complexity.
Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor.
Carrots: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and give a hearty texture to your soup.
Chicken broth: It gives a robust and well-rounded taste to the soup.
Salt and pepper: These seasonings are used to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Smoked ham hock: This is the flavor powerhouse of the soup. It's smoked and cured leg joint of a pig.
One reader, Ania Clifton says:
This split pea soup with ham recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the ham adds a delicious smoky taste. The peas are perfectly tender, and the broth is so flavorful. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy night in. Highly recommend!
Key Techniques for Perfecting Split Pea Soup With Ham
How to prepare the split peas: Wash the split peas thoroughly in a colander and drain them before using them in the recipe.
How to sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the onions and garlic. Sauté them until they are soft, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes.
How to check the consistency of the soup: After cooking for about 2 hours, check the consistency of the soup. If it becomes too thick, you may need to add hot water to achieve the desired consistency.
How to remove the meat from the ham hock: Once the soup is ready, remove the ham hock from the pot and discard the skin and bones. Shred the meat and return it to the soup before serving.
How To Make Split Pea Soup with Ham
This split pea soup is thick and rich with flavor. Topped it with ham that provides the smoky, sweet, and briny taste. Try this at home for the holidays.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 16ozdried split peas
- 2tspolive oil
- 1onion,chopped
- 2clovesgarlic,chopped
- 2carrots,chopped
- 8cupschicken broth
- kosher salt and pepper,to taste
- 1smoked ham hock
Instructions
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Wash the peas and drain.
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In a large pot, saute onions and garlic in 2 teaspoons of oil over medium heat until soft, about 4 to 5 minutes.
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Add the peas, carrots, ham hock and chicken broth, then cover the pot and let it come to a boil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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Once it boils, reduce heat and cook for about 2 hours, or until the peas are soft and thickened.
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Make sure to check the liquid and consistency. You may need to add hot water if it becomes too thick.
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Remove ham hock, discard the skin and boned and serve with ham.
Nutrition
- Calories: 550.24kcal
- Fat: 13.78g
- Saturated Fat: 3.80g
- Trans Fat: 0.06g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.38g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.29g
- Carbohydrates: 65.00g
- Fiber: 20.61g
- Sugar: 13.02g
- Protein: 43.03g
- Cholesterol: 55.66mg
- Sodium: 1200.67mg
- Calcium: 62.33mg
- Potassium: 1334.18mg
- Iron: 5.29mg
- Vitamin A: 180.20µg
- Vitamin C: 5.05mg
Elevate Your Split Pea Soup With This Simple Technique
When preparing your split pea soup, it's important to remember that the consistency of the soup can change dramatically as it cooks. The split peas will continue to break down the longer they cook, thickening the soup. If you find your soup is too thick, don't hesitate to add more liquid. You can use additional chicken broth or even just hot water. Conversely, if you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to cook a bit longer. The key is to keep an eye on it and adjust as necessary to achieve your preferred consistency.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Classic Soup
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a pressure cooker: Speed up the cooking time by using a pressure cooker to prepare the split pea soup with ham.
Substitute Ingredients For Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe
dried split peas - Substitute with dried lentils: Lentils are a great alternative to split peas, offering a similar texture and flavor profile in the soup.
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a neutral substitute for olive oil in this recipe, providing a similar cooking function.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, offering a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the soup.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar flavor.
carrots - Substitute with celery: Celery can be used as a substitute for carrots, adding a different but complementary flavor and texture to the soup.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a similar savory base for the soup.
smoked ham hock - Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey leg can be used as a substitute for ham hock, offering a similar smoky flavor and richness to the soup.
How to Beautifully Present This Comforting Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting the split pea soup with ham, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant green color of the soup, and carefully position the ham pieces to add depth and interest to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of flavor to the soup.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a small crouton or a delicate parmesan crisp placed strategically on top of the soup. This adds a textural contrast that elevates the overall dining experience.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the rim of the bowl, ensuring it is clean and free of any drips or smudges. Presentation is about the overall experience, and a clean presentation demonstrates professionalism and care.
Balance the elements: Aim for a balanced composition by considering the placement of each component. The ham, peas, and garnishes should be arranged thoughtfully to create a visually appealing and harmonious presentation.
Consider the vessel: Select a vessel that complements the rustic nature of the dish, such as a ceramic bowl or a polished wooden serving dish. The vessel should enhance the overall presentation without overshadowing the star of the show – the split pea soup with ham.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Split Pea Soup
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently processing vegetables, nuts, and other ingredients for the split pea soup.
- Large pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the split pea soup. It should be able to hold all the ingredients and allow for simmering without spilling over.
- Sauté pan: A sauté pan is useful for sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the soup. It provides a wide cooking surface and allows for even heat distribution.
- Chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is necessary for chopping the vegetables and trimming the ham hock. It's important to have a good quality knife for precision and safety.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients for the split pea soup. It helps to protect the countertop and keep the kitchen organized.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is a versatile tool for stirring and mixing the soup as it cooks. It's gentle on the pot and won't scratch the surface, making it ideal for use with non-stick cookware.
- Immersion blender: An immersion blender can be used to puree the split pea soup to a smooth consistency if desired. It's a convenient tool for blending hot soups directly in the pot, without the need to transfer to a traditional blender.
- Soup ladle: A soup ladle is essential for serving the split pea soup. It allows for easy and controlled pouring of the hot soup into bowls, ensuring a neat and tidy presentation.
Preserving the Goodness: Storing and Freezing Split Pea Soup
Once the split pea soup has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. If using a container, make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when the soup was made.
If you plan to freeze the soup in individual portions, consider using smaller containers or freezer bags. This way, you can thaw only what you need for a single serving.
When storing the soup in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
To freeze the soup, place the airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer. The split pea soup will maintain its best quality for about 2 to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you need to thaw it more quickly, you can place the container or bag in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the soup is thawed.
Reheat the thawed soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a little water or chicken broth to thin the soup if it has thickened during storage.
If you have added the ham to the soup before freezing, keep in mind that the texture of the meat may change slightly after thawing and reheating. However, the flavor of the soup will still be delicious.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Split Pea Soup
Reheat the split pea soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows for even heating and prevents scorching, ensuring the soup retains its original texture and flavor.
If the soup has thickened during storage, add a small amount of chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating. Stir well to incorporate the added liquid and achieve a consistent texture.
For a quicker reheating option, transfer individual portions of the soup to microwave-safe bowls. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated through. Adjust the time based on the portion size and your microwave's power.
If you have stored the ham separately from the soup, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces and add it to the reheated soup for a heartier meal.
To enhance the flavor of the reheated soup, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving the reheated soup. This will add a tangy richness to the dish.
For a crispy texture contrast, serve the reheated soup with croutons, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Fascinating Trivia About Split Pea Soup's History
Split pea soup with ham 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 addition of ham hock not only adds a rich, smoky flavor to the soup but also provides a good source of protein. This hearty soup has been a popular dish in many cultures and is often enjoyed during the colder months. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with various herbs and spices to suit different tastes and preferences.
Budget-Friendly Comfort: The Economical Appeal of Split Pea Soup
This split pea soup with ham recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Split peas are an affordable source of protein and fiber, while the addition of a smoked ham hock provides rich flavor without breaking the bank. With simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this hearty soup offers great value for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is Split Pea Soup With Ham Healthy or Unhealthy?
The split pea soup with ham 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 hock for flavor, which is high in saturated fat and sodium. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease, while excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure.
- The recipe does not include a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- The use of chicken broth also adds to the sodium content of the dish.
However, the recipe does have some positive aspects, such as the use of split peas, which are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. The inclusion of carrots and onions also adds some nutrients to the soup.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the ham hock with a leaner protein source, such as diced chicken breast or turkey. This will reduce the amount of saturated fat and sodium in the dish.
- Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the soup. Add celery, potatoes, or leafy greens like spinach or kale to boost the nutrient content and fiber.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the soup.
- Consider adding herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor without relying on salt.
- Serve the soup with a side salad or whole-grain bread to make it a more balanced and nutritious meal.
Editor's Opinion: Why Split Pea Soup With Ham Is a Must-Try
This split pea soup with ham recipe is a classic and comforting dish. The combination of split peas, ham hock, and vegetables creates a rich and hearty soup that is perfect for a cozy meal. The use of chicken broth adds depth of flavor, while the slow cooking process allows the peas to soften and thicken the soup. The addition of carrots provides a touch of sweetness and color. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and delicious choice for any occasion.
Enhance Your Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Split Pea Soup
From Start to Finish: Appetizers and Desserts for a Split Pea Soup Meal
Why trust this Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe:
This recipe for split pea soup with ham hock is a trusted classic that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of split peas, smoked ham hock, and chicken broth creates a rich and flavorful soup that is both comforting and satisfying. The use of onion, garlic, and carrots adds depth and sweetness to the dish. With the careful cooking process and attention to detail, this recipe ensures a hearty and delicious soup that users can trust to warm their hearts and nourish their bodies.
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