Pea and Ham Soup is a warm, comforting dish loaded with tasty split peas and chunks of savory ham. It’s perfect for chilly days and is super easy to make!
This soup is like a cozy hug in a bowl! I love how it fills the kitchen with a delicious aroma. A slice of crusty bread on the side makes it even better. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried Split Peas: These are the star of the soup! They become soft and creamy when cooked. If you can’t find green split peas, yellow split peas are a great alternative.
Ham: A ham hock adds a wonderful flavor to the soup. If you don’t have one, use diced cooked ham instead. You can even use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect choice for a vegetarian option. You can also make broth from scratch if you have time!
Onions and Garlic: Essential for building the soup’s base flavor. I personally love adding a bit more garlic for an extra kick!
Carrots and Celery: These veggies add texture and sweetness. If you’re out of celery, just leave it out, or use bell peppers for a different taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Thick and Creamy?
Thickening pea soup is all about cooking the peas until they break down. Here’s how to ensure a lovely thick texture:
- Simmer the soup long enough—1 to 1.5 hours is great.
- Stir occasionally to help the peas break down.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup while leaving some whole peas for heartiness.
This technique gives your soup that creamy feel without needing to add any cream! Watching it simmer is just as satisfying as eating it!
How to Make Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups dried split green peas, rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 ham hock or 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Optional: 1/2 cup fresh or frozen peas for added texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
To prepare this delicious Pea and Ham Soup, you’ll need about 10-15 minutes for prep and another 1 to 1.5 hours for cooking and simmering. This recipe gives you a warm, hearty soup that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and starting to become fragrant.
2. Add Garlic:
Once your veggies are softened, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. You want it to be fragrant but not browned!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the rinsed split peas, chicken (or vegetable) broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, and your choice of ham (ham hock or diced ham) to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally as it cooks. You’ll know it’s ready when the peas are soft and the soup has thickened nicely.
5. Shred the Ham:
If you used a ham hock, carefully remove it from the pot after the soup has simmered. Let it cool for a minute, then shred any meat off the bone and add it back to the soup. Discard the bone.
6. Blend (Optional):
If you’d like your soup to be smoother, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. You can leave some whole peas for texture if you prefer chunky soup!
7. Add Fresh Peas:
If you’re including fresh or frozen peas, now’s the time! Stir them into the soup and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
8. Season to Taste:
Finally, taste your soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed for seasoning. Stir well!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Pea and Ham Soup hot, with a sprinkle of extra black pepper on top if desired. Enjoy it alongside your favorite crusty bread for a lovely meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Peas for This Soup?
Yes! While dried split green peas are traditional, you can also use yellow split peas. They have a similar flavor and texture and will work beautifully in this recipe.
Is It Possible to Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables or a bit of smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover Pea and Ham Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute with other vegetables like potatoes, leeks, or zucchini. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and add them when you sauté the onions and carrots for even cooking.
