Poff'S Split Pea And Ham Soup
A hearty, comforting split pea and ham soup layered with smoky ham, tender vegetables, and savory spices, perfect for cozy gatherings or meal prep on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add both packages of split pea soup mix, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture for another 30 minutes.
- Add sliced carrots and chopped onion to the soup.
- Add pepper, brown sugar, and wine to the mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for an additional 2 hours.
- Add the cubed cooked ham and half of the seasoning packets about 10 minutes before the end of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a bay leaf while simmering the soup. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked paprika and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the ham. This dish is delicious served with crusty bread or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or croutons for added texture. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a hearty sandwich, like a Hot Turkey Sandwich, to complement the flavors of the soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container 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 has thickened. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poff'S Split Pea And Ham Soup contains roughly 112 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1196mg per serving (52% 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 split peas instead of soup mix?
Yes, you can use dried split peas instead of the soup mix. Just make sure to rinse them and soak them overnight to reduce cooking time. Adjust the liquid accordingly, as you may need to add more broth and water to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added flavor, consider including smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky taste, similar to what the ham would provide.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery, potatoes, or spinach. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as softer vegetables like spinach will need less time to cook than denser ones like potatoes. This flexibility allows you to customize the soup to your taste.
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).