When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Split Pea Soup with Ham to cozy up your home and satisfy your taste buds. This classic comfort food dish combines hearty split peas and savory ham with aromatic vegetables and flavorful seasonings. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for a comforting meal that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied. Let’s dive into the recipe for this flavorful and nutritious Split Pea Soup with Ham.
**Split Pea Soup With Ham Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound dried green split peas
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 pound ham steak, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 bay leaves
– Olive oil, for cooking
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Peas:** Start by rinsing the dried split peas in a colander under cold water. Pick through the peas to remove any debris or impurities. Drain well and set aside.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. **Add the Garlic and Spices:** Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Combine the Ingredients:** Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the diced ham, rinsed split peas, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. **Simmer the Soup:** Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The peas should be soft and the soup thickened.
6. **Adjust the Seasonings:** Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Ladle the Split Pea Soup with Ham into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with some crusty bread or crackers on the side.
**Final Thoughts:**
Split Pea Soup with Ham is a timeless recipe that delivers both warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. The creamy texture of the split peas, combined with the smoky flavor of the ham and aromatic vegetables, creates a delicious and nutritious soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, next time you crave a cozy and flavorful dish, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of this comforting Split Pea Soup with Ham.
