Easy Green Pea And Ham Soup Recipe

Green pea and ham soup is the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. There’s something comforting about the rich, smoky flavor of ham paired with the subtle sweetness of green peas. This classic soup is hearty and warming, making it perfect for chilly days or when you just need something filling and delicious. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and versatile.

Let’s dive into an easy green pea and ham soup recipe that will have you craving more with every spoonful. This simple yet flavorful dish takes minimal prep time and offers a wonderful combination of textures-from tender peas to savory ham, all simmered to perfection.

Easy Green Pea And Ham Soup Recipe

This recipe is great for those moments when you need something nutritious, satisfying, and comforting. It’s made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients Needed

For the most flavorful green pea and ham soup, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup dried green split peas (or 3 cups of fresh or frozen peas if you’re in a hurry)
• 1 lb ham (smoked or leftover, diced into cubes)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh if you prefer)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter for a richer flavor)
• Optional: a splash of heavy cream (for a creamier texture)
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or croutons for crunch

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to get everything ready from start to finish:

1. Prepare The Peas

   • If using dried split peas, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
   • You don’t have to soak dried peas for this recipe, but if you’re using dried peas, check the cooking time on the package, as it can vary.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent.
   • Toss in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add The Broth And Seasoning

   • Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer The Soup

   • Once boiling, add in the peas and diced ham.
   • Lower the heat, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 40-45 minutes. If using dried peas, they may take a little longer to soften, so check the consistency every 10 minutes.

5. Blend (optional)

   • If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup. Just be careful not to blend it all, as having some peas and chunks of ham adds texture.

6. Adjust Seasoning

   • Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. If you’re going for a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream and stir to combine.

7. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or croutons if desired. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the flavor even further.

Ingredient Insights

Now, let’s take a deeper dive into the ingredients that make this soup such a winner:

• Green Split Peas: These little legumes pack a nutritional punch, full of fiber and protein, making this soup not only hearty but also incredibly filling. They hold up well in soups, absorbing flavors and softening beautifully as they cook.
• Ham: The star of the show. Ham adds that smoky, salty bite that makes this soup irresistible. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham from a holiday meal or a Sunday roast. Using a smoked ham hock, if you can find one, will infuse the soup with an extra level of richness.
• Carrots and Celery: These vegetables provide sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the more savory elements. Carrots bring a subtle earthiness, while celery adds freshness and a bit of bite to the texture.
• Herbs: Bay leaves and thyme contribute aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor profile of the soup. The thyme adds a woodsy, herbal quality, while bay leaves give a fragrant background note.

Expert Tips

To elevate this soup even further, here are some expert tips to make your green pea and ham soup shine:

• Use a smoked ham bone: If you have a ham bone, use it! It will release rich flavors into the broth as it simmers, creating a deeper, more complex taste.
• Soak the peas (optional): Soaking the peas for a few hours before cooking helps them cook faster and more evenly, reducing the cook time by about 10-15 minutes. But don’t worry if you skip this step-it won’t ruin the soup.
• Don’t overcook the peas: While you want the peas soft, overcooking them can make the soup mushy. If using dried peas, keep an eye on them and check for doneness before the full 45 minutes.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, or mash some of the peas against the side of the pot.
• Make it creamy: For a smooth, velvety texture, add a touch of heavy cream or even half-and-half after cooking. This will turn your soup into a luxurious, comforting bowl of goodness.

Recipe Variations

This green pea and ham soup recipe is versatile, and you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add roasted mushrooms to mimic the depth of flavor ham provides.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the soup for a bit of heat. The spiciness will contrast nicely with the sweetness of the peas and the saltiness of the ham.
• Pea and Mint Soup: For a fresh twist, add a handful of chopped mint leaves right before serving. The mint will add a refreshing, slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with the peas.
• Add Potatoes: For an even heartier soup, throw in a couple of diced potatoes to cook with the peas. This will thicken the soup naturally and make it more filling.

Final Words

Green pea and ham soup is more than just a meal-it’s an experience. The combination of smoky ham, tender peas, and savory broth creates a symphony of flavors that are both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a cozy dish to enjoy on a cold day, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can adjust the seasoning, swap ingredients, and make it your own. With a bit of creativity, this soup can transform into a dish that perfectly suits your tastes, no matter how you choose to make it.