Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe

Introduction

Split pea soup with ham is a timeless classic that has warmed hearts and homes for generations. It’s a dish known for its rich flavor, hearty texture, and incredible nutritional benefits. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or a nutritious option to fuel your body, this soup fits the bill perfectly. In this article, we’ll guide you through making a delicious split pea soup, substituting turkey or chicken for ham, ensuring it caters to a wide variety of dietary preferences. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Creating a delicious split pea soup requires a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups split peas, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked, diced turkey or chicken, as a substitute for ham

Instructions

Creating this delightful soup is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly textured and flavorful dish:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until they’re soft and fragrant. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaf, and diced turkey (or chicken) to the pot.
3. Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow the soup to simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the peas are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
4. Season: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy the wholesome flavors!

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is essential, especially if you’re watching your diet. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving of this split pea soup:

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 15g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 10g

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with proteins and fibers, making it a nourishing choice for any meal.

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Serving split pea soup is not just about providing a warm and nourishing dish; it’s an opportunity to enhance its flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Here are several ways to elevate your split pea soup experience:

With Bread

One of the most classic accompaniments for split pea soup is a slice of bread. The right type of bread can elevate the dish significantly. Here are some options:

• Crusty Bread: A rustic, crusty bread, such as a sourdough or a country loaf, provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy texture of the soup. The firm crust allows for a delightful crunch, while the soft interior is perfect for dipping.
• Warm Baguette: A warm, freshly baked baguette is another excellent choice. Its light, airy structure and slightly chewy crust make it ideal for soaking up the hearty soup. You can serve it whole or slice it into pieces for easier dipping.
• Garlic Bread: For those who enjoy bold flavors, garlic bread can be a fantastic addition. The richness of the garlic butter complements the earthy flavors of the split peas, adding an extra layer of taste.
• Bread Bowls: For a fun and interactive serving style, consider using bread bowls. Hollowed-out rolls or small artisan loaves can hold the soup, allowing diners to enjoy both the soup and the edible bowl as they eat.

Garnishes

Garnishes play a crucial role in elevating the presentation and flavor profile of split pea soup. Here are some delightful options:

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs can brighten the dish both visually and flavor-wise. Parsley and chives are popular choices, but you might also consider dill or cilantro for a different flavor dimension. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also enhance the soup’s freshness.
• Dollop of Sour Cream: Adding a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche provides a creamy tang that balances the earthiness of the peas. This addition also adds richness and can make the soup feel more indulgent.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil can elevate the dish with its fruity notes and smooth texture. Drizzling a bit on top of the soup just before serving adds a touch of elegance and enhances the overall flavor.
• Spices: A light dusting of smoked paprika or freshly cracked black pepper can add depth and a hint of warmth to the soup. These spices not only contribute flavor but can also create a visually appealing contrast against the green hue of the soup.

Cheese

Cheese can transform split pea soup into a more indulgent and satisfying meal. Here are some cheese options to consider:

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can add a nutty richness that complements the soup’s flavors beautifully. Its salty profile enhances the overall taste, making each spoonful more savory.
• Cheddar Cheese: For a heartier option, sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful creaminess and a robust flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soup. Melted on top or stirred in, cheddar enhances the comfort food aspect of the dish.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta offers a tangy contrast to the soup. Its crumbly texture and salty flavor can lighten the dish and provide a unique twist. This is especially effective if you’re looking to infuse Mediterranean flavors into your meal.
• Goat Cheese: For a more gourmet touch, consider adding crumbled goat cheese. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor create a delightful contrast with the split pea soup, making it an elegant choice for a special occasion.

Additional Serving Suggestions

• Accompaniments: Consider serving your split pea soup with a side salad or a light appetizer, such as a vegetable crudité platter or a selection of olives. These can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup.
• Beverage Pairing: Pair your soup with a suitable beverage. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can complement the flavors beautifully, while a light lager or a pale ale can enhance a casual dining experience.
• Presentation: When serving, consider using bowls that showcase the soup’s vibrant green color. A wide, shallow bowl can create a more elegant presentation, allowing the garnishes to stand out.

By thoughtfully considering how to serve split pea soup, you can create an inviting and memorable dining experience that goes beyond the basics. Whether you stick to traditional pairings or experiment with new flavors, the right accompaniments can turn a simple soup into a truly delightful meal.

Additional Tips for Making the Perfect Split Pea Soup

Enhance your cooking experience and elevate the flavor profile of your split pea soup with these comprehensive tips:

Pea Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your split peas properly. Rinse the peas under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer. This step is crucial as it helps to remove dust, debris, and any small stones that may have made their way into the packaging. Additionally, rinsing helps to wash away some of the natural starches on the surface of the peas, which can lead to a creamier texture in your final dish.

After rinsing, inspect the peas for any discolored or damaged ones, and remove these from the batch. This ensures uniform cooking and enhances the overall visual appeal of your soup. If you have time, consider soaking the split peas in water for a few hours or overnight. Soaking can help reduce cooking time and may aid in digestion, making the soup easier on the stomach.

Consistency Control

Achieving the right consistency for your split pea soup is key to its enjoyment. As the soup simmers, you may find that it thickens more than you desire. To adjust the thickness, keep some vegetable or chicken broth on hand to add gradually. Start with a small amount, about a quarter cup, and stir well to incorporate. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes, then check the consistency again.

Conversely, if you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period. This allows excess liquid to evaporate and intensifies the flavors. For a creamier texture, you can also purée a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or by transferring it to a countertop blender, then returning it to the pot. This technique provides a delightful contrast between smooth and chunky textures.

Flavor Boost

To elevate the flavor profile of your split pea soup, consider adding a few extra ingredients during the cooking process. A splash of white wine not only adds acidity but also brings a subtle richness that complements the earthiness of the peas. Choose a dry white wine to prevent the soup from becoming overly sweet.

Another excellent addition is a dash of smoked paprika. This spice introduces a wonderful smokiness that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. You can also experiment with other spices such as cumin or coriander, or fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves, which can infuse the soup with aromatic depth. Don’t forget to season your soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste—seasoning in stages can help you achieve the perfect balance.

Storage

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious split pea soup, you may have leftovers that you’d like to store for later. To ensure freshness, transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to three days. Just remember that as it sits, the soup may continue to thicken, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating to restore its original consistency.

For longer storage, split pea soup freezes exceptionally well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label each container with the date for easy identification. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This way, you can savor the comforting flavors of split pea soup even weeks after its initial preparation.

By incorporating these tips into your cooking routine, you can ensure that your split pea soup is not only delicious but also tailored to your personal preferences, making every bowl a satisfying experience.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?

A: Absolutely! Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.

Q: Is it necessary to blend the soup?

A: Blending is optional and depends on your texture preference. If you enjoy a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.

Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

A: Yes, chicken broth is a great alternative if you’re not concerned about keeping the soup vegetarian.

Q: How do I make this soup vegan?

A: To make the soup vegan, simply omit the turkey or chicken and ensure your broth is vegetable-based.

Q: Can I add potatoes to the soup?

A: Certainly! Adding diced potatoes can provide extra heartiness and texture to the soup.

Conclusion

Split pea soup with ham, or its turkey substitute, is a comforting and satisfying dish that offers both flavor and nutrition. Its simplicity in preparation makes it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a starter, it promises to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. With the added flexibility of adjusting flavors and textures to suit your preferences, this soup is bound to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness that speaks comfort in every bite.

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