Split Pea And Ham Soup(Total Cooking Time: 75 To 85 Minutes)
A hearty and comforting split pea and ham soup with smoky flavor, tender peas, and savory ham hock. Perfect for chilly days or family dinners, this dish offers a rich, warming taste with minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks seeking a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a 4-quart microwave casserole and cover.
- Use the Cook cycle and cook for 70 to 80 minutes or until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham hock from the soup; let it cool until it can be handled and then remove the meat from the bone.
- Add the chopped meat back into the soup.
- Discard the peppercorns and bay leaf.
- Stir the soup.
- Use the Cook cycle again and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a diced carrot or celery to the pot. If you don't have a smoked ham hock, diced smoked top round of beef can serve as a great substitute. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth. Make sure to soak the split peas for a few hours to help them cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the split pea and ham soup with crusty bread for a hearty meal. A side of fresh citrus pasta salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with cookies 'n cream pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Split Pea And Ham Soup(Total Cooking Time: 75 To 85 Minutes) contains roughly 280 calories, with 7g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1980mg per serving (86% 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 a soup mix?
Yes, you can use dried split peas; just make sure to rinse them and soak them for a few hours before cooking. You'll need to adjust the cooking time, as dried peas may take longer to become tender.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add additional seasonings such as smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor profile.
Can I freeze split pea and ham soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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).