Rustic Split Pea Soup with Ham
Savor Rustic Split Pea Soup with Ham, a hearty, wholesome dish blending creamy split peas with savory ham. This comforting, nutrient-rich soup is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, delivering rich flavors with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rustic Split Pea Soup with Ham is a warm, soul-satisfying dish that transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, flavorful masterpiece, combining tender split peas with smoky ham for a protein-packed dinner. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this budget-friendly recipe simmers gently on the stovetop, filling your home with comforting aromas. Its versatility allows for dietary tweaks, making it a family favorite. Packed with fiber and nutrients, this soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, offering a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Rinse Split Peas: Rinse peas thoroughly to remove debris and excess starch for a smoother soup.
- Cook Low and Slow: Simmer gently to meld flavors and achieve a creamy texture without burning.
- Skim Foam: Remove foam during the first 20 minutes for a clearer, cleaner broth.
- Dice Ham Evenly: Cut ham into small, uniform pieces for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer for thickness.
- Taste and Season: Adjust salt at the end, as ham adds variable saltiness.
Rustic Split Pea Soup with Ham
Rustic Split Pea Soup with Ham, a hearty, savory dish perfect for cozy, nutritious dinners.
Ingredients
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup diced ham (or 1 ham hock)
- 1 lb dried green split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse Peas: Rinse split peas under cold water to remove debris and excess starch.
- Prep Veggies: Dice carrots, celery, and onion, and mince garlic for a savory base.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium; add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Peas and Broth: Add rinsed split peas, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot; stir well.
- Incorporate Ham: Add diced ham or ham hock, ensuring it’s submerged in the broth.
- Simmer Soup: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer; cover and cook for 1 hour 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check Consistency: Stir and adjust with more broth if too thick; remove ham hock if used.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper, adjusting based on ham’s saltiness.
- Serve with Flair: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and enjoy this hearty, comforting soup!
Notes
- Rinse split peas well to avoid a gritty texture in the soup.
- Ham hock adds deeper flavor but requires removal and shredding; diced ham is simpler.
- Leftovers thicken in the fridge; add broth when reheating to adjust consistency.
- Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 132Total Fat 2gSaturated Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 11mgSodium 380mgCarbohydrates 17gFiber 6gSugar 3gProtein 12g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Split Peas: Green split peas create a creamy base; yellow split peas are a milder alternative.
- Ham: Diced ham or a ham hock adds smoky, savory depth; bacon can substitute.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots provide sweetness and texture; baby carrots are a convenient option.
- Celery: Fresh celery adds a savory, aromatic base; ensure freshness for best flavor.
- Onion: Yellow onion offers a savory foundation; shallots provide a milder taste.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances aroma; garlic powder is a quick substitute.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth controls saltiness; vegetable broth works for a lighter flavor.
- Thyme: Dried thyme adds earthy warmth; fresh thyme or rosemary can substitute.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Omit ham and use vegetable broth with smoked paprika for smokiness.
- Protein Swap: Replace ham with smoked turkey, sausage, or lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Include potatoes, parsnips, or kale for extra heartiness and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth is gluten-free certified.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt for a lighter dish.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a subtle heat boost.
- Creamy Version: Blend a portion or add cream for a richer, smoother texture.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm with a splash of broth to restore consistency; stir well.
- Meal Prep: Portion into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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