If you’re seeking a comforting bowl of goodness, look no further than this Pea and Ham Soup. This classic dish is both nourishing and filling, perfect for chilly days when you need something warm to lift your spirits. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.
Imagine a bowl of vibrant green soup, packed with tender peas and savory ham. This Pea and Ham Soup combines the sweetness of peas with the smoky saltiness of ham, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that warms the heart.
Classic Comfort: Pea and Ham Soup
This Pea and Ham Soup stands as a warm embrace on chilly days, offering not just nourishment but a sense of comfort.
With its vibrant green hue and rich texture, this dish is an inviting option for any meal.
The combination of tender split peas, savory chunks of ham, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful symphony of flavors that warms the spirit.
Imagine a hearty bowl filled with earthy peas and the smokiness of ham, creating a dish that is as filling as it is flavorful.
This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that satisfies both hunger and the soul.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients for Pea and Ham Soup are simple yet impactful, allowing each component to shine.
Dried split peas serve as the base, providing a creamy texture when cooked.
Adding in fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery enhances the depth of flavor, while the ham infuses the soup with a savory richness.
Combined with a rich broth and a dash of seasoning, these ingredients come together to form a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Don’t forget the garnish of fresh parsley, which adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl!
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing Pea and Ham Soup is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
Start by rinsing the split peas and chopping your vegetables, ensuring everything is ready to go.
Sauté the aromatics in a pot, allowing the onions, carrots, and celery to soften before adding the rest of the ingredients.
Once the peas and ham are stirred in with the broth, patience is key as the soup simmers.
This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty soup that satisfies.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, ladle the warm soup into bowls, garnishing each with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an appealing finish.
Pair the soup with a slice of crusty bread, perfect for scooping up each delicious bite.
This combination not only elevates the meal but also invites a sense of homeliness to the table.
Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, Pea and Ham Soup offers a delightful experience that resonates with comfort.
Each bowl is a reminder of simple pleasures, making it a dish that is sure to bring everyone together.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond its comforting taste, Pea and Ham Soup boasts several nutritional benefits.
With approximately 250 calories per serving, it’s a hearty meal without being overly indulgent.
The dish is packed with protein from the ham and peas, while also providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables.
This makes it not only a satisfying option but also a nourishing one, perfect for those seeking a balanced meal.
Enjoying a bowl of this delightful soup can be both a treat for the taste buds and a boost for overall well-being.
Making It Your Own
One of the joys of making Pea and Ham Soup is the ability to customize it to your taste.
Feel free to experiment with different types of ham or add additional vegetables that you enjoy.
Smoky bacon can also be an excellent substitute, providing an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
You might also consider adjusting the thickness of the soup by blending a portion of it for a creamier texture or leaving it chunky for a heartier feel.
No matter how you choose to make it, this soup is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.
Classic Comfort: Pea and Ham Soup
This Pea and Ham Soup is a deliciously thick and hearty dish made with split peas, tender ham, and vegetables. It has a comforting taste that combines the earthiness of peas with the savory notes of ham, making it a delightful option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ham hock or 1 cup diced ham
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the split peas and chop the vegetables.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, combine the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté in a bit of oil over medium heat until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add Peas and Ham: Stir in the rinsed split peas, ham hock or diced ham, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Season: Remove the ham hock, shred the meat if using, and return it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
