Ah, Split Pea & Ham Soup! This recipe brings back so many cozy memories of chilly afternoons spent at my grandmother’s house, where the smell of savory soup would waft through the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. There’s just something so inherently comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup, especially when you can see those vibrant green peas mingling with tender chunks of ham. It’s the perfect food for when you want to nourish your soul!
What I love most about this soup is its simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a delightful way to use up leftover ham, turning what might be a mundane meal into something truly special. So, let me share this recipe with you—the one that’s been a staple in my family for generations!
What’s in Split Pea & Ham Soup?
Dried Green Split Peas: These little legumes are the stars of the show! They’re packed with protein and fiber, making this soup not just delicious but also a hearty option. Remember to rinse them well—they’re a bit shy about getting all cleaned up!
Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil provides a rich, nutty flavor to the base of the soup and is a great healthy fat choice. I like to use extra-virgin for that added depth.
Onion, Carrots, and Celery: This classic trio, also known as mirepoix, adds a wonderful flavor foundation. I prefer sweet onions for that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness.
Garlic: You can never go wrong with garlic! It adds a punch of flavor and aroma that makes you feel right at home.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The liquid gold of this soup! You can choose homemade for a personal touch, or I sometimes grab a low-sodium store-bought version if I’m in a rush.
Bay Leaf: Just one bay leaf imparts a complex flavor that’s worth the wait. Don’t forget to fish it out before serving!
Dried Thyme: This herb enhances the depth and earthiness of the soup. Fresh thyme is lovely, too, but dried works perfectly here.
Cooked Ham: The hero ingredient that ties everything together! I like using leftover ham from a holiday feast, but any cooked ham will do. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces, and you’ll be all set.
Salt and Pepper: These are your trusty seasoning buddies. Adjust to your taste!
Fresh Parsley: Totally optional, but I love adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Is Split Pea & Ham Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is a nutritional powerhouse. Each bowl is loaded with fiber from the split peas and protein from the ham, making it satisfying and filling. The veggies add important vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal. If you’re looking to keep things lighter, just go easy on the salt, especially if you use store-bought broth or ham, which can be higher in sodium.
One thing to consider: if you or anyone you’re serving has a sensitivity to legumes, keep that in mind as split peas can cause some digestive issues for certain folks. But fear not, the benefits far outweigh the downsides!
Ingredients for Split Pea & Ham Soup (Serves 6-8)
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Make Split Pea & Ham Soup?
1. Rinse the split peas under cold water and set them aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant—trust me, the aroma will take over your kitchen!
4. Stir in the rinsed split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 60-75 minutes, or until the split peas are tender.
6. After the peas are nice and soft, add the diced ham to the soup and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to heat the ham through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Oh, and don’t forget to fish that bay leaf out before serving.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Now, sit back and enjoy your comforting bowl of split pea and ham soup!
Soup-er Tips & Variations!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in some smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of kick!
– I sometimes throw in some potatoes for extra heartiness.
– Serve with a crusty bread or a light salad, and you’ve got yourself a complete meal.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It’s like a warm hug on a cool day, and I hope it becomes a cherished part of your family meals just like it has in mine. Let me know how it goes, and feel free to share any twists you come up with! Happy cooking!
