"Deliciously Hearty Ham Split Pea Soup Recipe for a Cozy Night In"
Guide or Summary：Ham Split Pea Soup RecipeHam Split Pea Soup RecipeIf you're looking for a warm and comforting dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, the ham sp……
Guide or Summary：
Ham Split Pea Soup Recipe
If you're looking for a warm and comforting dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, the ham split pea soup recipe is the perfect choice. This classic soup combines the rich, savory flavors of ham with the earthy goodness of split peas, creating a hearty meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
#### Ingredients
To make a delicious ham split pea soup, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of split peas (green or yellow)
- 1 ham hock or 2 cups of diced ham
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Split Peas**: Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any debris. Set aside.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. **Add the Ham and Broth**: Stir in the diced ham or ham hock, followed by the rinsed split peas. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. **Simmer the Soup**: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender. If you're using a ham hock, you can remove it once the meat is tender and shred the meat to return it to the soup.
5. **Season and Serve**: After the peas are tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
#### Tips for the Best Ham Split Pea Soup
- **Soak the Peas**: While it's not necessary, soaking the split peas for a few hours or overnight can help them cook faster and make the soup creamier.
- **Use Leftover Ham**: This recipe is an excellent way to use leftover ham from holiday meals. Just dice it up and add it to the soup for extra flavor.
- **Add More Vegetables**: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- **Blend for Creaminess**: If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup before serving.
#### Conclusion
The ham split pea soup recipe is not just a meal; it's a comforting bowl of nostalgia that warms the soul. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week, this soup is filling, flavorful, and easy to make. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal or enjoy it on its own. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade ham split pea soup!