This pea and ham soup is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor! Made with tender peas and delicious bits of ham, it’s comfort food in a bowl. Perfect for chilly days!
Honestly, there’s something magical about the combo of sweet peas and smoky ham. I always feel cozy with a big bowl in my hands—definitely a hug in soup form! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split Green Peas: These are the star of the show! They give the soup its hearty texture. If you can’t find them, yellow split peas work just as well, but they have a slightly different flavor.
Ham: Cooked ham adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter version, try using diced mushrooms or smoked tofu instead for that umami taste.
Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavor, but vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly. You can also use homemade broth for a richer taste!
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics create a strong flavor base. If you’re short on time, powdered onion and garlic could be a quick substitute, though fresh is always better!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Soup?
The texture of pea and ham soup is crucial for a cozy experience. To get it just right, remember these steps:
- Sauté the onion and garlic until they’re soft. This little step adds depth to your flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering! Cooking the peas low and slow allows them to break down properly and develop a smooth texture.
- Use an immersion blender to control how smooth or chunky you want the soup to be. This way, you can tailor it to everyone’s liking.
- If you prefer some pieces in your soup, only blend half of it. You can enjoy both textures in one bowl!
How to Make Delicious Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon: olive oil or butter
- 1: medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves: garlic, minced
- 3 cups: dried split green peas, rinsed
- 6 cups: chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 to 1½ cups: cooked ham, diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2: bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup: fresh or frozen green peas (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 carrot, diced (adds sweetness and color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting pea and ham soup takes about 10 minutes for prep work and 1 to 1½ hours for cooking. Altogether, you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Just think of all the deliciousness waiting for you once it’s done!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes. This helps to soften them and brings out a wonderful aroma!
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Next, add the rinsed split green peas, diced ham, bay leaves, and chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. If you decided to use a carrot for added sweetness and color, toss that in as well. Give everything a good stir!
3. Cook the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1½ hours. Stir occasionally, and watch as those peas soften and your soup thickens.
4. Blend the Soup:
Once the peas are soft, remove the bay leaves. You can either use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s as smooth or chunky as you like, or carefully transfer portions to a regular blender. Blend until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Green Peas:
Stir in the fresh or frozen green peas for a fresh burst of color and texture. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until those peas are tender and bright!
6. Season to Taste:
Finally, take a moment to season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste as you go until it’s just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to serve your delicious pea and ham soup hot! Garnish each bowl with a bit of extra diced ham and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy the comforting taste!
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of pea and ham soup to lift your spirits. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Dried Split Peas?
No, frozen peas are not a substitute for dried split peas in this recipe. Dried split peas are key to creating the thick, hearty texture of the soup. However, you can use frozen peas towards the end for garnish and additional texture.
How Can I Adjust the Thickness of the Soup?
If you find the soup too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water during the cooking process to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken up!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add diced smoked tofu for a similar smoky flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in portions for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge before reheating!