Warm your soul: ultimate guide to making green split pea soup with ham that will impress

Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of a classic green split pea soup, infused with the smoky richness of ham. This comforting dish is not only a culinary delight but also a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined to create something truly extraordinary. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a step-by-step journey, unraveling the secrets of how to make green split pea soup with ham that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Culinary Magic

• 1 pound (2 cups) dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 pound smoked ham, bone-in or boneless, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions: A Culinary Symphony in Motion

1. Prepare the Peas: In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, combine the green split peas, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.

2. Add the Ham: Stir in the ham pieces, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Continue simmering for an additional 45 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and the soup has thickened.

3. Season to Perfection: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.

4. Puree for a Creamy Texture: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender and puree until desired consistency is achieved.

5. Serve with Warmth and Comfort: Ladle the hot green split pea soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley or croutons for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Variations: Culinary Exploration at Your Fingertips

• Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless version of this classic soup.

• Smoky Ham Hocks: Enhance the smoky flavor by using ham hocks instead of ham pieces. Remove the meat from the hocks once the soup is done cooking.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a subtle spicy kick.

• Creamy Transformation: For a richer and creamier soup, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.

Tips for Culinary Excellence

• Soak the Peas: Soaking the split peas overnight helps reduce cooking time and makes them more digestible.

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked peas can become mushy and lose their flavor. Keep a close eye on the soup during the simmering process.

• Use a Ham Bone: If you have a ham bone available, add it to the soup for extra flavor. Remove the bone before serving.

• Thicken the Soup: If the soup is too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken it.

• Store and Reheat: Green split pea soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or heat it over low heat on the stovetop.

The Final Touch: A Culinary Masterpiece

As you savor the last spoonful of your homemade green split pea soup with ham, revel in the satisfaction of having created a culinary masterpiece that is both comforting and delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy meal on a chilly evening or share it with loved ones, this soup is sure to warm hearts and create lasting memories.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use frozen green split peas?
A: Yes, you can use frozen green split peas without thawing them first. Simply add them to the soup and increase the cooking time by about 15 minutes.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have smoked ham?
A: You can use regular ham, bacon, or even sausage in place of smoked ham.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A: Yes, you can add chopped potatoes, zucchini, or green beans to the soup for additional flavor and nutrition.

Q: How do I make the soup gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free chicken broth and make sure that the ham you use is also gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.