Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham | Cozy Crockpot or Stovetop Recipe

Introduction

Imagine a cold winter’s day, and all you can think of is something warm, comforting, and delicious to fill your belly. That’s where our Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham comes in – a cozy, easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any time of the year. Using everyday ingredients, this recipe is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures, ensuring that each spoonful is a delight. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, whether you’re using your trusty crockpot or sticking to the stovetop. This recipe is all about embracing the simplicity of cooking while still achieving impressive results with minimal effort.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of split peas, ham, and aromatic vegetables creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in your local grocery store.
• Ease of preparation: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Whether you choose the crockpot or stovetop method, the preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, the end result is a soup that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for serving to guests or enjoying as a family meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
• 1 pound smoked ham, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for stovetop method)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preparation – Begin by chopping the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and rinse the split peas.
2. Step 2: Cooking the Base – For the crockpot method, place all the ingredients except for the olive oil into the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For the stovetop method, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until they’re tender. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Step 3: Adding Flavors – If using the stovetop method, add the split peas, ham, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
4. Step 4: Final Touches – Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Handy Tips

• For a creamier soup, you can puree a portion of it in a blender or with an immersion blender.
• Consider using leftover ham for an even quicker preparation time.
• Don’t overcook the soup, as the split peas can become mushy.

Heat Control

Maintaining the right heat is crucial, especially when cooking on the stovetop. Ensure that the soup simmers gently to prevent the ingredients from cooking too quickly or burning. If using a crockpot, the low heat setting is ideal for a slow and gentle cook.

Crunch Factor

This soup is all about comfort and warmth, so it’s meant to be tender rather than crunchy. The vegetables should be soft, and the split peas should have broken down slightly, contributing to the soup’s hearty texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a high-quality chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
• Don’t skip the step of sautéing the aromatic vegetables, as this adds a significant layer of flavor to the soup.
• Consider making a large batch and freezing some for later, as this soup freezes beautifully.

Storage Tips

• Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, portion the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat.
• When reheating, you may need to add a bit of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This soup makes a wonderful gift, especially during the colder months. Consider packaging it in mason jars or thermoses and adding a baguette or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A small bouquet of fresh herbs or a handwritten note can add a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Smoky Depth: Use smoked paprika or add some diced bacon for a smokier flavor.
• Herby Freshness: Add more fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit of water or broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a bit longer or add a slurry made from flour and water.
• Ingredient replacements: You can substitute the ham with bacon or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Over/undercooking signs: The split peas should be tender but not mushy. If they’re still hard, cook for a bit longer. If they’re too soft, it might be overcooked.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Just portion it out into airtight containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a bit longer for the larger quantity to cook through.

Conclusion

Our Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying a meal that warms both the belly and the heart. With its ease of preparation, impressive flavor, and comforting warmth, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own flavor variations. Happy cooking!