Lentil And Split Pea Ham Soup
A hearty, comforting lentil and split pea soup infused with smoky ham and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a satisfying family meal or cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover lentils and split peas with water and soak overnight. Drain.
- Place soaked lentils and split peas in a large saucepan with 8 cups water, smoked ham, chopped onion, crushed garlic, bay leaf, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
- Simmer, partially covered, for 2 hours until lentils and split peas are tender and the mixture thickens.
- Add sliced carrots and sliced celery to the soup.
- Simmer, uncovered, for an additional 45 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using leftover ham bone or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you don't have dried split peas, you can substitute with more lentils or use canned peas, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra aroma. This soup also freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with a side of Frances' Tasty Chops And Rice. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for added flavor. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or a filling lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil And Split Pea Ham Soup contains roughly 520 calories, with 15g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (284% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 516mg per serving (22% 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 easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of water. You can enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky taste.
How do I know when the lentils and split peas are tender?
Lentils and split peas should be soft and easily mashable between your fingers when done. If they still have a bite, continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, checking frequently until they reach your desired softness.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking times; add quicker-cooking vegetables later in the process to maintain their texture.
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).