Ham And Pea Soup
A hearty, comforting ham and pea soup packed with smoky flavor and fresh vegetables, perfect for family dinners or cold days needing warmth and nourishment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the green split peas, carrots, celery, onion, ham bone and meat, and seasoned salt.
- Boil moderately fast for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. If you don't have a ham bone, diced ham or smoked sausage can be great substitutes. Ensure to rinse the split peas well before adding them to the pot to remove any impurities. Stir regularly to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom, especially towards the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham and pea soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad, like Cajun Cole Slaw, to balance the heartiness of the soup. A dollop of sour cream can also enhance its creaminess, making it a comforting meal any day.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Pea Soup contains roughly 2197 calories, with 124g protein, 356g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (415% of the Daily Value), protein (249% of the Daily Value), and iron (143% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1236mg per serving (54% 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?
Dried peas and split peas are different; split peas are already peeled and split, which helps them cook faster. If you use dried peas, you'll need to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly, which may take longer.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
For added heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. Alternatively, a splash of hot sauce just before serving can elevate the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add additional vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and substance, making it hearty and satisfying.
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).