Ham, Split Pea And Black Bean Soup(Merlyn'S Marvelous Medley)
A hearty, flavorful soup combining leftover ham, split peas, black beans, and rice, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for those who enjoy savory, protein-rich dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Leave generous portions of ham on the ham bone and cook on low in water in a Dutch oven for several hours.
- Refrigerate the ham and liquor for 1 or 2 days.
- Remove the ham from the liquor and cut it into chunks.
- Simmer the liquor again, adding split peas, and cook for 1 hour.
- Add beans and rice, then cook on low until the mixture thickens.
- Add chunks of onion during cooking as the soup thickens.
- Simmer until the soup is soft and ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use leftover ham bone with meat for depth. If you don't have Cajun black beans and rice, substitute with regular black beans and add Cajun spices to taste. Feel free to toss in leftover vegetables for added nutrition. Make sure to soak the split peas overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the flavor. It pairs beautifully with Party Sized Baked Beans for a filling family dinner or gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham, Split Pea And Black Bean Soup(Merlyn'S Marvelous Medley) contains roughly 102 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% 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 make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, and consider incorporating more vegetables like carrots and celery for a hearty vegetarian version.
How long will this soup keep in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using dried black beans, soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding to the soup. This ensures they are tender and fully cooked before mixing with the split peas.
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).