This hearty pea and ham soup is a comforting bowl of goodness! Made with tender peas, flavorful ham, and spices, it’s perfect for chilly days.
You know it’s a good soup when it warms your heart and your tummy! I love pairing it with some crusty bread for dipping. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both are great for sautéing. I usually prefer olive oil for a lighter flavor, but butter adds a nice richness. You can use either or even a mix for flavor.
Split Green Peas: Don’t worry if you can’t find split peas. You can substitute with whole green peas, but the cook time will be longer as they need more time to soften.
Cooked Ham: Feel free to swap in turkey or chicken if you want a variation. Some even use bacon for a smoky flavor, which is a fun twist!
Broth: Chicken broth adds a nice depth of flavor, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works perfectly too.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup?
If you want a thicker soup, there are several options to consider:
- Add more split peas at the start. This helps with thickness without altering the flavor too much.
- After blending, you can add in a little cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken it as it simmers.
- Leaving some peas unblended will also give the soup a heartier texture.
These tips can help you achieve the consistency you love. Enjoy making this comforting soup!
Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups split green peas, rinsed and drained
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh or frozen green peas (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pea and ham soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 1 hour to cook. It’s a great dish to set on the stove while you do other things around the house!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step adds rich flavor to the base of your soup!
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Next, stir in the dried split peas, diced ham, bay leaves, and the dried thyme if you’re using it. This is where the magic begins as all those wonderful flavors combine!
3. Cooking the Soup:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer partially covered for about 1 hour. The peas should become very soft during this time.
4. Blending to Smoothness:
After the soup has simmered, remove the bay leaves. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it is smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
5. Adding Texture:
Stir in a handful of fresh or frozen green peas to give the soup a nice pop of color and texture. Let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes so those peas can warm through.
6. Final Touches:
Season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. It’s always good to taste as you go, so get it just the way you like!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot pea and ham soup topped with additional diced ham, a sprinkle of black pepper, and some crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Enjoy this comforting, thick, and savory pea and ham soup—perfect for cozy days! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use Other Types of Peas?
While split green peas are best for this recipe, you can use yellow split peas if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor and color will differ slightly.
What Should I Do If the Soup Is Too Thick?
If your soup ends up thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Heat gently to ensure it’s warmed through.
Is This Soup Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store it in airtight containers in the fridge.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you enjoy a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also include diced jalapeños for an extra spicy twist!
