Ham and Green Split Pea Soup

INTRODUCTION

Ham and green split pea soup is a warm and hearty meal that brings comfort to chilly days. This classic dish combines the rich flavor of ham with the earthy goodness of split peas. It is a great way to use leftover ham, making it both resourceful and delicious. This soup is also packed with nutrients, providing a tasty way to enjoy vegetables. Making this soup is easy, and it fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for several reasons. First, it is simple to make. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a bowl of delightful soup in no time. Second, this soup is very filling. The combination of split peas and vegetables makes it a hearty meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. Third, it is a low-cost dish. Dried peas are usually inexpensive, and using a ham bone ensures you do not waste food. Lastly, this soup is very flexible. You can add or change ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you want to boost flavor or add more vegetables, this recipe allows you to do so easily.

HOW TO MAKE Ham and Green Split Pea Soup

Making ham and green split pea soup is simple and rewarding. You start with dried green split peas and a meaty ham bone, then combine other ingredients to build flavor. Follow the steps to create a delicious soup everyone will enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this soup, you will need some basic kitchen tools:

• A Dutch oven or a large pot
• A cutting board
• A knife for chopping vegetables
• A measuring spoon
• A ladle for serving
• A spoon for stirring

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 package (16 ounces) dried green split peas
• 1 meaty ham bone
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup chopped carrot
• 1 cup chopped celery

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. First, sort the dried peas. Check for any small stones or bad peas. Rinse the peas well with cold water to clean them.

2. Next, place the peas in a Dutch oven. Add enough water to cover the peas by about 2 inches.

3. Bring the water to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, let it boil for 2 minutes.

4. After boiling, remove the pot from the heat. Cover it and let it stand for 1 to 4 hours. This rest time helps soften the peas.

5. Once the peas are softened, drain and rinse them. Discard the soaking liquid.

6. Return the peas to the Dutch oven. Add 2.5 quarts of water to the pot along with the ham bone, chopped onion, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.

7. Bring the mixture to a boil again.

8. After it reaches a boil, reduce the heat. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 hours. Stir the soup occasionally.

9. After simmering, remove the ham bone from the soup. Allow it to cool slightly before handling.

10. Once cool, remove the meat from the bone. Discard the bone and dice the ham meat into small pieces. Return the diced meat to the soup.

11. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot.

12. Continue to simmer the soup uncovered for another 45 to 60 minutes. This will let the soup thicken and the vegetables become tender.

13. Finally, remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.

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HOW TO SERVE Ham and Green Split Pea Soup

Serving ham and green split pea soup is easy and enjoyable. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. This soup is best served hot, making it a perfect meal for a chilly day.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Ham and Green Split Pea Soup

Ham and green split pea soup stores well, making it great for leftovers. Once the soup has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat on the stove until warmed through.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. Serve it with simple bread like a baguette, garlic bread, or even homemade cornbread. For a lighter meal, pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette. If you want to enhance the flavors, consider adding hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese on top when serving.

VARIATIONS

You can customize ham and green split pea soup to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Add spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Other meats: If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use diced ham, bacon, or smoked sausage for a similar flavor.
• Vegetable variations: Add different vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or green beans as they cook well in soups.
• Herbs: Substitute dried thyme with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for a fresh flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. After preparing the ingredients, place everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peas and vegetables are tender.

2. Is there a way to thicken the soup if it is too thin?
Yes, if the soup is too thin, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the peas in the pot. Alternatively, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

3. Can I use split peas other than green?
Yes, you can use yellow split peas instead. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

4. How do I know when the peas are cooked?
You will know the peas are cooked when they are soft and breaking apart. They should be tender and can be easily mashed with a fork.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Ham and Green Split Pea Soup

To save time, you can prepare components of the soup ahead of time. Sort and rinse the peas the night before, then soak them in water. Chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge. You can also cook the soup a day ahead; the flavors will develop even more overnight in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and enjoy a delicious meal with little extra effort.

In conclusion, ham and green split pea soup is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s an excellent recipe for using leftovers and creates a warm, comforting meal that is perfect for any day. Try this recipe, and you might find it becoming a favorite in your home!

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