Ham Bone And Pea Soup
A hearty ham bone and pea soup packed with vegetables and savory flavors, perfect for comforting gatherings or a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, cover the ham bone, peas, and onion with water. Boil over medium heat until the ham is soft and falls off the bone.
- Remove the bone and ham from the pot. Cut the ham into small pieces and return it to the pot.
- Add the potatoes, chicken bouillon cubes, garlic powder, diced celery, diced carrots, black pepper, salt, and bay leaf to the pot.
- Cook until the peas, potatoes, carrots, and celery are tender.
- Serve the soup hot with hard rolls for dunking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. If you don’t have dried split peas, lentils can be a substitute, but adjust cooking times accordingly. You can also use leftover ham instead of a bone, just add it later in the cooking process. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or hard rolls for dunking, which pairs beautifully with this comforting dish. A simple side salad or some pickles can provide a refreshing contrast. For an added kick, consider serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce for those who like extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Bone And Pea Soup contains roughly 793 calories, with 25g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (298% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (147% of the Daily Value), and potassium (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 886mg per serving (39% 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 a different type of meat instead of ham?
Yes, you can use smoked turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to include some meat with bones to add depth to the soup. If using leftover meat, add it towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
How do I know when the peas are cooked properly?
The peas should be tender and fully broken down, giving the soup a thick consistency. If they are still firm, continue cooking for a bit longer, adding water as necessary to prevent sticking. Taste periodically to ensure they reach your desired texture.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you prefer, simply add a bit of water or broth until you reach the desired consistency. Stir well to combine and heat through. Adjust seasoning afterwards, as adding liquid can dilute flavors.
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).