Ham and Split Pea Soup

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Are you craving a warm and comforting bowl of soup? Look no further than ham and split pea soup.

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Ham and Split Pea Soup
Prep
20 min
Cook
1 hr 20 min
Total
1 hr 40 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. In a large pot or bowl, place the peas and cover with water by 2 inches. Soak for 8 hours or overnight. Drain the peas and set aside.

  2. Score the ham hock and place it in a pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 1 hour. Drain and set aside.

  3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add celery and carrots and cook, stirring, until they become soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.

  4. Add the ham hock and ham to the pot and cook, stirring, until they start to brown. Add the drained peas, salt, pepper, and pepper flakes. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add 8 cups of water, bay leaf, and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peas become tender, about 1 hour. (Add more water if the soup becomes too thick or dry.)

  5. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Serve immediately with Parmesan Truffled Chips on top.

  6. Using a mandolin or a very sharp, heavy knife, thinly slice the potatoes into rounds. Place them in a large bowl of water to prevent discoloration.

  7. Heat the oil in a large, heavy pot to a temperature between

About this recipe

Are you craving a warm and comforting bowl of soup? Look no further than ham and split pea soup. This classic dish is packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients, making it the perfect choice for a cozy meal on a chilly day. In this article, we will explore the wonders of ham and split pea soup, its history, and how to make it at home.

The History of Ham and Split Pea Soup

Ham and split pea soup has a long and rich history. It is believed to have originated in Europe, where split peas were a staple food due to their affordability and nutritional value. The addition of ham to the soup provides a savory and smoky flavor that complements the earthy taste of split peas perfectly.

Over the years, ham and split pea soup has become a beloved dish in many cultures around the world. It is often associated with comfort, as it reminds us of home-cooked meals and warm memories. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, this soup never fails to satisfy.

Making Ham and Split Pea Soup at Home

Creating a delicious pot of ham and split pea soup is easier than you might think. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

  • Ham hock or leftover ham
  • Split peas
  • Onion
  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Garlic
  • Bay leaves
  • Thyme
  • Chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by soaking the split peas in water overnight.
  2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until they are fragrant and softened.
  3. Add the ham hock or leftover ham to the pot and cook for a few minutes to release its flavors.
  4. Drain the soaked split peas and add them to the pot along with the bay leaves, thyme, and broth.
  5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about an hour or until the split peas are tender.
  6. Remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat. Return the meat to the soup.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Remember, you can always customize your ham and split pea soup by adding additional vegetables or spices. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own.

In Conclusion

Ham and split pea soup is a timeless classic that never fails to warm the soul. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and savor the deliciousness of ham and split pea soup?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use other types of meat instead of ham?

While ham is the traditional choice for this soup, you can experiment with other meats like bacon or smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.

Can I make ham and split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply follow the recipe instructions and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the split peas are tender.

Can I freeze ham and split pea soup?

Yes, ham and split pea soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How can I make vegetarian ham and split pea soup?

To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor.

Can I use canned split peas instead of dried ones?

While dried split peas are the preferred choice for this soup, you can use canned split peas in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as canned split peas are already cooked.

What are some garnishes that go well with ham and split pea soup?

Common garnishes for ham and split pea soup include croutons, chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of sour cream. These additions can elevate the flavors and add a touch of freshness to the dish.

Can I make ham and split pea soup without soaking the peas?

Soaking the split peas overnight helps to soften them and reduce the cooking time. However, if you're short on time, you can skip the soaking step and increase the cooking time in the recipe.

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green ones?

Absolutely! Yellow split peas have a slightly milder flavor compared to green split peas, but they can be used interchangeably in this recipe.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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