Fresh Pea Soup
A hearty and flavorful pea soup infused with ham, perfect for comforting meals. Rich, smoky, and satisfying, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the ham in a large kettle with water and bring to a boil.
- Cook until the ham is done, then remove and set aside, cubing approximately 2 to 4 cups of the meat.
- Grind the frozen peas, carrots, onions, and potatoes in a food grinder or food processor.
- Add the ground vegetables and ham to the stock.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours.
- Add the ham cubes to the soup before serving.
- Enjoy the hearty pea soup!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a smoked ham instead of a regular one. If you're short on time, canned peas can be substituted, but fresh peas will yield the best taste. You can also add herbs like thyme or dill for extra flavor. To enhance the soup's creaminess, blend a portion of it after cooking and return it to the pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fresh pea soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or croutons for added texture. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad, making it a perfect starter or main dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Ann'S 7 Layer Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fresh pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a bit of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Pea Soup contains roughly 1280 calories, with 38g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (243% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (181% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (147% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1175mg per serving (51% 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 fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas will provide a sweeter, fresher flavor. Just make sure to shell them before adding to the soup. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since fresh peas cook faster than frozen.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this pea soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
What can I serve with this soup?
This hearty pea soup goes well with a variety of sides. A simple green salad or a sandwich like a classic grilled cheese works wonderfully. You could also serve it alongside Polska Kielbasa Old Country Supper for a filling meal.
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).