Honey Baked Ham Pea Soup Recipe

When you think of comfort food, there’s something undeniably inviting about a hearty bowl of soup, especially when it comes with a rich, flavorful twist. Honey Baked Ham Pea Soup is the perfect blend of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet-ideal for cold days, casual dinners, or using up leftovers from a special meal. This dish takes the humble split pea soup and elevates it with the addition of honey-baked ham, transforming it into a filling, flavorful masterpiece.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and sure to impress. Plus, it’s an excellent way to give new life to leftover ham, making it a budget-friendly and delicious meal.

So, if you’re looking for a cozy, mouth-watering soup that combines the flavors of rich, tender ham and earthy peas, let’s dive into this fantastic Honey Baked Ham Pea Soup recipe!

Honey Baked Ham Pea Soup Recipe

This recipe takes the traditional pea soup to a whole new level. The sweetness and smokiness of honey-baked ham meld beautifully with the creamy texture of split peas. It’s hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-tasty. Let’s get into the details of how to make this amazing soup!

Ingredients Needed

To create this delectable Honey Baked Ham Pea Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups dried split peas – The foundation of the soup. Split peas have a creamy texture once cooked, perfect for blending into a silky soup.
• 1 lb honey-baked ham (cut into bite-sized cubes) – The star of the dish. The honey-baked ham brings both savory depth and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 medium onion (chopped) – For an aromatic base. Onions add richness and depth to the flavor.
• 2 carrots (peeled and diced) – Carrots bring a touch of sweetness and color to the soup.
• 3 celery stalks (diced) – Adds freshness and crunch to balance out the soup’s creaminess.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Garlic is a flavor enhancer that brings out the savory goodness of the ham and vegetables.
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth – The liquid base of the soup. You can opt for low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
• 1 bay leaf – A subtle yet essential aromatic herb for infusing the broth with extra flavor.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – Thyme is earthy and slightly floral, adding an extra layer of savory depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Seasonings are crucial to bring all the flavors together. Adjust to suit your preference.
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter – For sautéing the vegetables and enhancing the richness of the soup.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) – For an extra smoky kick, especially if you want to highlight the ham’s flavor even more.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Split Peas

   • Start by rinsing the dried split peas under cold water to remove any dust or debris. No need to soak them beforehand-just give them a good rinse and set them aside.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.

3. Add The Garlic And Seasonings

   • Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant.

4. Combine The Peas And Broth

   • Stir in the rinsed split peas, then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer The Soup

   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, uncovered, for about 45-60 minutes. Stir occasionally, and check the split peas for doneness. They should be tender and starting to break apart.

6. Add The Ham

   • Once the peas are soft and the soup is creamy, stir in the cubed honey-baked ham. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes so the ham can heat through and infuse the soup with its flavors.

7. Adjust Seasoning

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

8. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down the star ingredients to understand their role in making this soup a standout dish:

• Split Peas: They are packed with fiber and protein, making the soup not only tasty but also filling. The peas also contribute a lovely creamy texture as they break down during cooking.
• Honey-Baked Ham: The ham brings both a savory, umami flavor and a touch of sweetness from the glaze, which perfectly balances the natural earthiness of the peas.
• Vegetables (Onions, Carrots, Celery): The classic trio of mirepoix (onions, carrots, celery) forms the backbone of many soups. They provide a base flavor that enhances the entire dish and adds essential vitamins.
• Thyme & Garlic: These aromatic ingredients boost the soup’s complexity and create a more layered flavor profile.
• Broth: The type of broth you use can significantly impact the taste. Chicken broth will provide a richer, heartier base, while vegetable broth makes it a more neutral, vegan-friendly option.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Honey Baked Ham Pea Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:

• Blend the Soup: If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend the soup partially or fully. This will give the soup a velvety texture.
• Use Leftover Ham: This is the perfect recipe for using up leftover ham, whether from a holiday meal or a simple dinner. The honey-baked ham adds so much flavor, so don’t worry about it being dry-once simmered, it will become tender.
• Add a Splash of Cream: For an extra creamy soup, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half toward the end of cooking. This will give the soup a rich, velvety finish.
• Make it Ahead: This soup actually gets better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few ways you can tweak the recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the honey-baked ham and use vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like leeks or sweet potatoes for a hearty alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables for a spicy twist.
• Smoked Ham: If you don’t have honey-baked ham, smoked ham will work wonderfully in this recipe, giving the soup a similar smoky flavor.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or sage for different aromatic profiles. Fresh herbs work well as a garnish too.

Final Words

Honey Baked Ham Pea Soup is the epitome of comfort food: hearty, satisfying, and brimming with flavor. The sweetness of the ham paired with the creamy peas and savory vegetables creates a wonderfully balanced dish. It’s perfect for chilly nights, meal prep, or simply making the most of leftovers.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s not only rich and comforting but also nutritious and versatile.