This comforting pea and ham soup is perfect for a chilly day! Made with sweet peas and hearty ham, it’s warm, filling, and oh-so-delicious.
Nothing feels better than a big bowl of this soup, especially when the weather is cool. I often pair it with some crusty bread for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split Green Peas: These are the star of the soup! They’re packed with nutrients and give a lovely creamy texture. If split peas aren’t available, you can use yellow split peas instead for a similar taste.
Ham: While I love using diced cooked ham, leftover Easter or holiday ham works really well too. If you’re after a vegetarian version, try using smoked tofu or a vegetarian ham substitute for the same smoky flavor.
Broth: Chicken broth is common for a richer taste, but vegetable broth makes a great lighter option, especially for a vegetarian or vegan soup. Homemade broth is always best if you have some on hand!
Herbs: I often add dried thyme for richness, but feel free to play with other herbs like rosemary or sage for a different twist. Fresh herbs can also brighten up the dish at the end!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Soup Texture?
Texture is key in this pea and ham soup. To get it just right, follow these steps:
- Cook the peas until they’re very soft—this helps create a smooth texture.
- Using an immersion blender allows for more control. Blend it right in the pot for easy clean-up!
- If you prefer some chunks, blend only half the soup and keep the other half as is for a delightful mix of textures.
Always taste as you go, adjusting for thickness by adding more broth or water if needed. Enjoy creating a velvety soup that warms you from the inside out!
Delicious Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups split green peas, rinsed
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh or frozen green peas for garnish (about ½ cup)
To Serve:
- Crusty bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting pea and ham soup takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 1 to 1.5 hours to simmer on the stove. The total time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax while it cooks and fills your kitchen with delicious aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are softened and the onion is translucent.
2. Add Garlic:
Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. This step really enhances the flavor of your soup!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Toss in the rinsed split green peas, diced ham, bay leaves, and dried thyme if you’re using it. Pour in the broth and give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours. You’ll want to check occasionally and stir it to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. The peas should be very soft and starting to break down during this time.
5. Purée the Soup:
Once the peas are soft, remove the bay leaves. Now you can use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can also carefully blend the soup in batches in a regular blender and then return it to the pot.
6. Add Fresh Peas:
Stir in the fresh or frozen green peas and let the soup cook for another 5 minutes until they are tender but still bright green. This will add a pop of color to your soup!
7. Season the Soup:
Finally, add salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning makes all the difference, so adjust it to your liking!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra diced ham on top for a lovely touch. Serve with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy your hearty, comforting pea and ham soup!
Can I Use Dried Peas Instead of Split Peas?
Yes, you can use dried peas, but you’ll need to soak them overnight first! This helps them cook evenly and reduces the overall cooking time. Just remember that they may take longer to break down compared to split peas.
What Can I Use Instead of Ham?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, smoked tofu or tempeh can mimic the flavor of ham. You can also just skip the ham altogether and use a combination of mushrooms or additional vegetables to deepen the flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover pea and ham soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to cool it completely before freezing!
Can I Customize the Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or even leeks. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable’s size and density, so adjust as needed. Enjoy experimenting!
