Country Pea Soup
Country Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender green peas, smoky ham, and a medley of fresh vegetables, simmered to perfection. Its rich, savory flavors make it ideal for cozy family dinners or meal-prepping for the week. Nutritious and satisfying, it's a timeless classic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peas, water, tomato juice, ham bone or hock, potato, celery, onion, carrot, bay leaf, salt, and pepper in a large kettle.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 1/2 hours or until peas are mushy-tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a smoked ham hock instead of a regular one. If you don’t have split green peas, you can substitute with yellow split peas. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the depth of the soup. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially as the peas break down.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Honey-Glazed Baked Ham for a complete comfort food experience or alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Country Pea Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Pea Soup contains roughly 3840 calories, with 151g protein, 618g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (463% of the Daily Value), protein (301% of the Daily Value), and iron (194% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1344mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried peas instead of split peas?
Yes, you can use dried peas, but they will require soaking overnight before cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since dried peas may take longer to become tender.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ham bone with smoked paprika for flavor and use vegetable broth instead of water and tomato juice. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the taste.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is thinner than desired, you can mash a portion of the peas against the side of the pot or add a slurry made from flour and water. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).