Recipe: Pea and Ham Soup - A Hearty and Flavorful Classic
This recipe for pea and ham soup is a comforting classic, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a rich and satisfying flavor profile that will leave you wanting more. This SEO-optimized post will guide you through each step, ensuring your pea and ham soup turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a subtle earthy flavor and texture.
- 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed: The star of the show! Choose green split peas for a vibrant green soup.
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup. Chicken broth adds a richer flavor.
- 1 pound ham bone or ham hock: This is crucial for the rich ham flavor. You can substitute with 1 cup of diced cooked ham, but the bone/hock adds more depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a warm, earthy aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a beautiful garnish and fresh herb flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor.
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Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the rinsed split peas, broth, ham bone (or hock), thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the peas are tender. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Remove the Ham Bone (if using): Once the peas are tender, carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone and return it to the soup. Discard the bone.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pea and Ham Soup:
- Soaking the peas (optional): Soaking the split peas overnight can reduce cooking time.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or leeks.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before serving for extra richness.
- Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Conclusion:
This classic pea and ham soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Follow these steps, and you'll be enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness in no time! Remember to share your culinary creations using the hashtags #PeaAndHamSoup #SoupRecipe #HomemadeSoup on social media. Let's connect and share our love for delicious, easy-to-make meals!
