Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone: A Hearty and Flavorful Recipe
This recipe for split pea soup with a ham bone delivers a rich, savory, and deeply satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening. The ham bone infuses the soup with incredible depth of flavor, making it a truly special dish. This recipe is also incredibly budget-friendly and easily adaptable to your taste.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound dried split peas: Rinse thoroughly before using to remove any debris.
- 1 ham bone: A bone-in ham hock or a leftover ham bone works perfectly. The more bone, the richer the flavor!
- 8 cups water or chicken broth: Using broth will add extra depth of flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works best.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Classic soup vegetable for a reason!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A touch of herbaceousness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried bay leaf: Adds subtle earthiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your preference.
- Optional additions: Consider adding a bay leaf, smoked paprika, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a diced potato for extra heartiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed split peas, ham bone, water (or broth), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the split peas are tender and easily mashed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove Ham Bone: Once the soup is cooked, carefully remove the ham bone. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone and add it back to the soup. Discard the bone.
- Season and Blend (Optional): Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree a portion of the soup. This step is entirely optional – many prefer the texture of a chunkier soup.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Soaking the peas: For faster cooking, you can soak the split peas in cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight before cooking. This will significantly reduce the cooking time.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
- Garnish: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or crusty bread for dipping.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe is a winner because it's easy to follow, delicious, and incredibly versatile. The use of a ham bone adds a depth of flavor that elevates this simple soup to a truly memorable meal. The optional additions allow you to customize the soup to your preferences, making it a perfect recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks. It’s also a great way to use leftover ham, making it a budget-friendly and sustainable option.
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