Fr. Bob'S Pea Soup
A hearty and comforting split pea soup with smoky ham flavor, perfect for winter evenings. Rich, flavorful, and satisfying, ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the split peas overnight after rinsing.
- Put the soaked peas into a large stockpot along with all the other ingredients and bring to a boil.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the soup through a strainer and may be thinned with milk or water if necessary.
- Serve hot with croutons or saltines.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. If you don't have a ham bone, smoked turkey or leftover ham works well as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and consider adding herbs like thyme for extra flavor. This soup can also be made vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable stock instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pea soup hot, garnished with croutons for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Chicken Drummies or a sandwich. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days and is sure to satisfy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just remember to leave space for expansion in the container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fr. Bob'S Pea Soup contains roughly 164 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 substitute dried peas, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time as needed until they are tender. Split peas cook faster, so keep an eye on the texture.
How do I know when the soup is done?
The soup is done when the split peas are soft and have broken down, creating a thick consistency. This usually takes about 2.5 hours of simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, leeks, or spinach for more flavor and nutrition. Just ensure that the additional cooking time is similar, so everything cooks evenly and remains tender.
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).