Vi'S Pea Soup (Thick)
A hearty, comforting pea soup infused with smoky ham and fresh vegetables, perfect for chilly days and family dinners seeking rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the carrots, onions, potato, and celery into medium chunks.
- Place the chopped vegetables, ham hock, and washed split peas in a large pot.
- Add enough water to cover the ham hock and ingredients.
- Add the bay leaf and pepper, then cover and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat immediately and simmer for about 2 hours or until the split peas have melted away.
- Taste and add salt if desired.
- Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
- Ensure some good meat remains on the ham hock before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or thyme along with the bay leaf. If you're in a pinch, canned peas can be substituted, but you'll need to adjust cooking time to avoid mushiness. For a vegetarian version, replace the ham hock with a smoked vegetable broth and add more spices for depth. This thick pea soup is a comforting dish that pairs well with crusty bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pea soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or croutons for added texture. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Pork Chops On Rice (Makes 6 Servings.) for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the consistency, and warm it over low heat on the stove until heated through. Stir well to combine separated ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vi'S Pea Soup (Thick) contains roughly 429 calories, with 14g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (200% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 796mg per serving (35% 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 Vi's Pea Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cover with water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for an easy, hands-off cooking experience.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your pea soup turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in additional broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as adding more liquid may dilute the flavors. A splash of vinegar can also enhance the taste and bring brightness to the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like leeks, garlic, or even sweet potatoes for a twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly. Adding greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking can also boost nutrition and color.
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).