Pea and Ham Soup
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If there’s one dish that captures the essence of comfort food, it’s Pea and Ham Soup. Rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this classic recipe makes a perfect meal for chilly evenings or casual family gatherings. I have fond memories of savoring a steaming bowl of this soup, especially during winter when I craved something warm and nourishing. What makes this soup stand out is its depth of flavor, a delicious interplay between the earthy split peas and the savory ham, all simmered together to create a dish that’s irresistibly satisfying.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
There are countless reasons to whip up a pot of Pea and Ham Soup. For starters, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, allowing you to feed a family without breaking the bank. The slow cooker version is a game-changer for busy weeknights, letting you prep and forget while the flavors meld deliciously over hours. Plus, this dish is truly kid-approved with its inviting green color and comforting flavors.
"This soup is a winter staple in our house! It’s filling, and the kids love it. Plus, it makes our kitchen smell incredible throughout the day!"
In addition to its taste and ease of preparation, this recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover ham, making it both resourceful and sustainable. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Pea and Ham Soup is an ideal choice that pleases everyone at the table.
How to make Pea and Ham Soup (slow cooker or stove)
Step-by-step overview
Creating this wholesome soup is straightforward. You’ll start by combining the dried split peas with your choice of ham, whether it’s a hock, bone, or leftover meat, and then add in a variety of aromatics. The cooking process is primarily hands-off — just set it and forget it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop. In under ten hours or a couple of hours on the stove, you’ll be rewarded with a thick, hearty soup ready for garnishing and serving.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To perfect your Pea and Ham Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g / 1lb dried split peas (Note 1)
- 1.2-1.5kg / 2.4-3lb ham hock (aka ham bone), bacon hock, or meaty leftover ham bone (Note 2)
- 1/4 tsp salt (start with less, adjust later)
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves, dried or fresh
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 8 cups (2 litres/qts) water
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Crusty bread for dunking!
You can also customize this soup by adding additional vegetables, such as potatoes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce, to enhance the flavor.
Directions
Cooking method
Here’s a simple guide to prepare your Pea and Ham Soup:
- Place the dried split peas in your slow cooker and push the ham hock into the center.
- Scatter the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic around the ham.
- Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the water, ensuring everything is submerged.
- Cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours or HIGH for 6 hours. If using a stovetop, simmer on low for 2.5 hours. For an Instant Pot, pressure cook on HIGH for 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Once done, carefully remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and discard the bone and fatty skin.
- Remove bay leaves.
- Use a stick blender to blitz the soup two or three times to achieve a thicker consistency, if desired.
- Stir the shredded ham back into the soup. Taste and add more salt if needed, as the ham will add saltiness.
- Serve garnished with parsley and enjoy with crusty bread for dunking!
How to serve Pea and Ham Soup (slow cooker or stove)
Best ways to enjoy it
This Pea and Ham Soup is not only delicious on its own but also versatile when it comes to serving. Spoon generous portions into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Pair it with a crusty loaf of Irish soda bread, garlic bread, or elevate your meal with cheesy garlic bread for that melty touch.
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing Pea and Ham Soup is simple. Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. This soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving, ensuring it’s piping hot throughout.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your soup is as flavorful and delicious as possible, here are a few pro tips:
- Soak the peas: While it’s not necessary, soaking the dried split peas for a few hours can help them cook more evenly and reduce the overall cooking time.
- Enhance the flavor: Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce right before serving to brighten up the flavors.
- Customize consistency: Depending on your preference, you can adjust how blended you’d like the soup — a few blitzes for a chunky texture, or blend fully for a smoother finish.
Variations
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some ways to put your twist on this classic recipe:
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Veggie Delight: Throw in your favorite veggies such as diced potatoes or spinach for added nutrition.
- Herbaceous: Swap out the parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to give the soup a distinct herbal note.
FAQs
Common questions
How long does it take to cook Pea and Ham Soup?
Cooking times vary based on the method. For the slow cooker, expect 8 to 10 hours on LOW or 6 hours on HIGH. On the stove, it’s about 2.5 hours on low, or 1 to 1.5 hours in a pressure cooker.
Can I use split peas that don’t require soaking?
Yes! Dried split peas do not need soaking, which makes this recipe even more convenient.
Is it safe to freeze Pea and Ham Soup?
Absolutely! Just ensure it cools completely before placing it in airtight containers for freezing. It’ll last up to 3 months. Always reheat thoroughly before consuming.
By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of Pea and Ham Soup. Enjoy the cozy warmth and the delightful flavors this dish brings!
Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Place the dried split peas in your slow cooker and push the ham hock into the center.
- Scatter the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic around the ham.
- Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the water, ensuring everything is submerged.
- Cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours or HIGH for 6 hours. If using a stovetop, simmer on low for 2.5 hours. For an Instant Pot, pressure cook on HIGH for 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Once done, carefully remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and discard the bone and fatty skin.
- Remove bay leaves.
- Use a stick blender to blitz the soup two or three times to achieve a thicker consistency, if desired.
- Stir the shredded ham back into the soup. Taste and add more salt if needed.
- Serve garnished with parsley and enjoy with crusty bread for dunking.
