Deliciously Hearty Pea and Ham Soup Recipe
Pea and Ham Soup is a classic dish that warms the soul, especially during chilly days. This comforting soup blends the sweet, earthy flavor of split peas with the rich, savory notes of ham. In this blog post, we will delve into the origins of this beloved recipe, offer a detailed ingredients list, guide you through step-by-step directions, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Origins of Pea and Ham Soup
Pea and Ham Soup has a long and storied history, dating back centuries. Its roots can be traced to various regions around the world, particularly in Europe, where it became a staple in households due to its affordability and nourishing benefits. The use of split peas, which are dried, shelled green or yellow peas, has been practiced since ancient civilizations, providing a rich source of protein and fiber.
The addition of ham to the recipe likely emerged from the necessity of using every part of the pig, a common practice in many cultures. A variety of regions, including England and France, lay claim to their own versions of pea and ham soup, with each adding regional spices and herbs to create unique flavors. Despite its many variations, the core idea of combining peas and ham has remained unchanged—creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients for Pea and Ham Soup
Here’s a quick list of ingredients you will need to serve 4-6 people:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Split green or yellow peas | 1 ½ cups |
| Ham hock or leftover ham | 1 large or 2 cups cubed |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced |
| Carrot | 2 medium, diced |
| Celery | 2 stalks, diced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Vegetable broth (or chicken broth) | 6 cups |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Thyme (dried or fresh) | 1 teaspoon (if using fresh, use 1 tablespoon) |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your own delicious Pea and Ham Soup:
- Rinse the peas: Thoroughly rinse the split peas under cold water. This helps to remove any debris and excess starch.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook an additional minute.
- Combine ingredients: Add the rinsed peas to the pot along with the ham hock (or cubed ham), bay leaves, thyme, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. If using a ham hock, periodically check the soup and skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Remove the ham: After simmering, take the ham hock out of the pot. If you used cubed ham, you can leave it in. If you used a ham hock, let it cool briefly before shredding the meat and discarding the bone and skin. Return the shredded ham to the pot.
- Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember that the ham will add some saltiness, so season accordingly.
- Blend for creaminess (optional): If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion to a blender, blend, and return it to the pot.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with crusty bread or croutons for an even heartier meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use different types of peas for this recipe?
While this recipe traditionally uses split green or yellow peas, you can try other varieties such as black-eyed peas or lentils. Keep in mind that cooking times and flavor profiles may vary, so adjust accordingly.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
To make a vegetarian or vegan version of pea soup, eliminate the ham entirely and replace the ham hock with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve a smokier flavor. Use vegetable broth and add additional spices to enhance the taste.
3. Can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Yes! Pea and Ham Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container or resealable freezer bags.
Now you have all the information needed to create a comforting pot of Pea and Ham Soup. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day, sharing it with family, or preparing it for meal prep, this soup is sure to warm your heart and soul. Happy cooking!
