Pea Soup Deluxe
A hearty, flavorful pea soup with ham, carrots, and celery, perfect for comforting gatherings or cozy family dinners, offering rich savory notes and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the split peas overnight, optionally with the sliced ham.
- Place all ingredients in a heavy pot and bring to a simmer.
- Cook on low heat until the peas are soft, about 3 hours, stirring often to prevent scorching.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, soak the split peas overnight with the diced ham, allowing the flavors to meld. If you don't have bologna, consider using smoked sausage or kielbasa as a substitute. Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Adding a bay leaf or a few sprigs of thyme can enhance the soup's aroma and overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pea Soup Deluxe with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Southern Cornbread Thanksgiving Stuffing, adding a delightful contrast in textures. For extra flair, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the soup, as it thickens upon cooling. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea Soup Deluxe contains roughly 263 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (239% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg 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 use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so consider adding more herbs or spices to enhance the taste.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender and then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, you can add a few more split peas during cooking to achieve a creamier consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, leeks, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them in at the beginning with the other ingredients for even cooking.
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).