This pea and ham soup is warm and comforting, perfect for cozy days. With tender peas and juicy ham, it’s a bowl of happiness that warms you right up!
Whenever I make this soup, I feel like a chef! It’s so easy to whip up and great for using leftover ham. Grab some bread to dip, and you’re all set! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I like using olive oil for a lighter touch, but butter adds a rich flavor. You can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free option!
Onion: This gives a beautiful base flavor. Yellow onions are great, but if you’re in a pinch, a shallot or even green onions can work too.
Split Green Peas: These peas are starchy and break down nicely to thicken the soup. You can swap with yellow split peas if you prefer a different color!
Cooked Ham: Leftover ham is perfect! If you’re vegetarian, substitute with smoked tempeh or mushroom for that savory taste.
Potato: Using potatoes adds extra creaminess. You can skip it if you want a lighter soup, or use cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative.
How Do I Make the Perfect Soup Texture?
To achieve the right texture for your pea and ham soup, blending is essential! Using an immersion blender allows for easy mixing right in the pot, plus you can control how smooth you want it.
- Start with blending about 2/3 of the soup mixture until smooth, then leave the rest chunky for texture.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer portions to a regular blender, but always let it cool a bit to avoid splatters!
Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning. Extra black pepper or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavor even more!
How to Make Delicious Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Preparing the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups split green peas, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1-2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional, for thickness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- A handful of fresh or frozen green peas
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 1 hour to cook. You’ll spend about 45 minutes simmering for the peas to become tender. Plus, a few extra minutes for blending and garnishing. It’s simple and so worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion is soft and a little see-through. This develops a nice base flavor!
2. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot and give it a quick stir. Cook for one more minute until it smells wonderful! Garlic really brings the soup to life.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Next, add your rinsed split peas, the diced potato (if using), and the chicken or vegetable stock. Make sure to stir it all together so everything is mixed well.
4. Simmer Away:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat until it’s gently simmering. Let it cook for about 45 minutes, or until the peas are very soft. You’ll want to stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
5. Add the Ham:
Once the peas are tender, add the diced ham into the pot. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together. The aroma will be fantastic!
6. Blend the Soup:
If you like a smooth soup, blend it using an immersion blender until it’s creamy. If you prefer some texture, just blend part of it and leave some chunks. Either way, it will taste delicious!
7. Season to Taste:
Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to customize the flavor!
8. Prepare the Garnish:
In a small pan, warm the fresh or frozen peas until they’re just tender. This bright color will look lovely on your soup.
9. Serve it Up:
Grab some bowls and ladle the soup in. Top each bowl with the heated peas and a sprinkle of fresh black pepper. If you like, add thyme or parsley for that finishing touch!
10. Enjoy!
This soup is perfect when served hot with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty pea and ham soup—it’s a hug in a bowl!
Can I Use Dried Peas Instead of Split Peas?
No, dried peas and split peas are not the same. Split peas are already hulled and split, making them quick-cooking. Dried peas need soaking and longer cooking times. Stick with split peas for this recipe for the best results!
How Can I Store Leftover Pea and Ham Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or stock if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable stock instead of chicken broth. To add a smoky flavor, consider stirring in some smoked paprika or liquid smoke!
How Do I Thicken the Soup Further?
If you’d like a thicker soup, you can blend more of the mixture until smooth or add another diced potato during cooking. Another option is to stir in some cornstarch mixed with water before blending!
