Soup Recipes

Pea And Ham Soup Yellow Split Recipe : Step By Step Guide

10 min read

Pea and ham soup is a timeless, hearty dish that evokes warmth and comfort with every spoonful. This classic soup is beloved for its rich, earthy flavors, and the satisfying balance between the soft, creamy peas and the savory, smoky ham. While this dish is enjoyed across many cultures in different forms, the yellow split pea and ham variation stands out for its bright, vibrant color and smooth texture. It’s a dish that brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding you of cozy evenings by the fire or Sunday lunches with family. Plus, it’s incredibly filling, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner after a long day.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of creating a simple yet delicious Yellow Split Pea and Ham Soup that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is designed to be approachable, yet flavorful. So, let’s dive into the world of split peas and smoky ham, and bring this delightful soup to life!

Pea And Ham Soup Yellow Split Recipe

This particular recipe focuses on yellow split peas, which are a bit milder in flavor compared to the traditional green split peas. The yellow peas have a slightly sweeter taste and break down into a creamy, smooth consistency that pairs perfectly with the salty, savory ham. This soup is perfect for any season, especially colder months, and is as comforting as it is nutritious.

Here’s The Breakdown

  • Yield: Serves 6-8
  • Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients Needed

For the perfect Yellow Split Pea and Ham Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients. They’re simple, whole foods that blend together harmoniously to create a soup that’s rich in both flavor and nutrients.

Main Ingredients

  • Yellow Split Peas (2 cups): These peas are the heart of the soup, offering a smooth texture and subtle flavor. They will break down as the soup simmers, creating a creamy base.
  • Smoked Ham Hock (1 large, or 2 smaller ones): The smoky, salty ham imparts a deep, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the peas. If you can’t find a ham hock, a leftover ham bone or diced ham also works well.
  • Carrots (2 medium): Carrots add a mild sweetness and a bit of texture. They balance out the flavors and add to the heartiness of the soup.
  • Celery (2 stalks): Celery brings a fresh, aromatic note that brightens up the soup.
  • Onion (1 medium): A classic base ingredient that provides a foundation of sweetness and depth.
  • Garlic (2-3 cloves): Adds a subtle, savory punch to the soup’s flavor profile.
  • Bay Leaves (2): Bay leaves add a subtle earthy and herbal flavor that enhances the overall complexity of the soup.
  • Vegetable or Chicken Broth (6 cups): You’ll need a flavorful broth to cook the peas and bring everything together. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought will work fine.
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste): Adjust according to the saltiness of the ham. You may not need much salt because of the ham’s inherent saltiness.
  • Olive Oil or Butter (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing the vegetables to kickstart the flavor base.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

  1. Prepare The Ingredients

    • Rinse the yellow split peas under cold water, making sure to remove any debris or stones. Set them aside.
    • Dice the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into small pieces.
    • If you’re using a ham hock, set it aside to add later.

  2. Sauté The Vegetables

    • In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
    • Add the carrots, celery, and garlic, and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step builds the flavor base for your soup.

  3. Add Broth And Ham

    • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and bring it to a gentle boil.
    • Add the yellow split peas, ham hock (or diced ham), and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine.
    • Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 1-1.5 hours. Stir occasionally. The peas will begin to soften and break apart, thickening the soup. If the soup gets too thick, feel free to add extra water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

  4. Season The Soup

    • Once the peas are fully softened and the ham is falling off the bone (if using a ham hock), remove the ham hock. If you’re using diced ham, skip this step.
    • Shred any meat from the ham hock and return it to the soup, discarding the bone.
    • Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper. Since the ham can be quite salty, you might not need much extra seasoning.

  5. Serve

    • Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, serve with a warm slice of crusty bread on the side.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a unique role in the development of flavor and texture. Here’s why they are important:

  • Yellow Split Peas: These peas are rich in fiber and protein, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious, filling soup. They’re also quick-cooking compared to other beans or peas, which means you get a creamy texture in less time.
  • Ham Hock: The ham hock is key to achieving that deep, smoky flavor that defines this soup. It releases fat and gelatin as it cooks, which contributes to the soup’s rich consistency. It’s a cost-effective way to add a lot of flavor to your dish.
  • Carrots, Celery, and Onion (Mirepoix): This classic French trio forms the aromatic base for many soups and stews. The sweetness from the carrots, the fresh crunch from the celery, and the onion’s deep flavor all work together to balance the richness of the ham.
  • Garlic: Garlic adds a fragrant undertone and savory depth that elevates the dish without overpowering the natural flavors of the peas and ham.

Expert Tips

To ensure that your pea and ham soup turns out perfect, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

  • Soaking the Peas: You can soak yellow split peas overnight to reduce cooking time, but this isn’t necessary. Split peas cook fairly quickly and don’t need to be soaked. Just make sure to rinse them well before using.
  • Smoked Ham vs. Fresh Ham: Smoked ham gives the soup that signature smoky flavor. If you’re using fresh ham, you might want to add a touch of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to mimic that flavor.
  • Use a Pressure Cooker: If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to make this soup in under 30 minutes. Just sauté the vegetables, add the rest of the ingredients, and cook on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Texture Variation: If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup after it’s cooked. If you like some texture, leave it as is.

Recipe Variations

While this Yellow Split Pea and Ham Soup is delicious as is, there are several ways to customize it to your tastes:

  • Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the soup for a bit of heat.
  • Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary would add another layer of flavor to the broth. Toss in a sprig or two while the soup simmers and remove before serving.
  • Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian variation, omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add in smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or even smoked tempeh to give it a smoky flavor.
  • Add Potatoes: For an even heartier soup, you can add diced potatoes during the simmering stage. They will absorb the flavors of the broth and add another dimension to the texture.

Final Words

This Yellow Split Pea and Ham Soup is a versatile, nutritious, and utterly satisfying meal. The hearty, comforting flavors of the peas and ham combined with the fragrant vegetables create a soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or just craving something cozy, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Pea And Ham Soup Using Yellow Split Peas?

The key ingredients for pea and ham soup using yellow split peas include yellow split peas, ham hock or diced ham, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, vegetable or chicken stock, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper for seasoning.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Pea And Ham Soup With Yellow Split Peas?

The total cooking time for pea and ham soup with yellow split peas is usually around 1.5 to 2 hours. The peas should be cooked until they break down and the soup reaches a thick consistency, with an additional time for simmering to develop flavor.

Can I Use Canned Yellow Split Peas For Pea And Ham Soup?

Yes, you can use canned yellow split peas for pea and ham soup. However, if using canned peas, reduce the cooking time as the peas are already cooked. It is important to adjust the seasoning and broth to ensure the soup reaches the desired consistency and flavor.

Should I Soak Yellow Split Peas Before Making Pea And Ham Soup?

Soaking yellow split peas before cooking is not mandatory, but it can reduce cooking time. If you choose not to soak them, expect the cooking process to take longer, as the peas will need more time to soften.

Can I Make Pea And Ham Soup With Yellow Split Peas In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make pea and ham soup with yellow split peas in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop more slowly and gives the soup a rich, hearty texture.

What Can I Use Instead Of Ham Hock In Pea And Ham Soup?

If you don’t have a ham hock, you can use diced ham, smoked turkey leg, or even bacon for a smoky flavor. These alternatives will still provide a rich, savory taste to the soup.

How Can I Make Pea And Ham Soup With Yellow Split Peas Gluten-free?

Pea and ham soup with yellow split peas is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any stock or broth used is gluten-free, as some commercially prepared stocks may contain gluten.

Can I Freeze Leftover Pea And Ham Soup With Yellow Split Peas?

Yes, you can freeze leftover pea and ham soup with yellow split peas. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove.

How Do I Thicken Pea And Ham Soup With Yellow Split Peas If It’s Too Watery?

If your pea and ham soup is too watery, you can thicken it by either cooking it for a longer time to allow the peas to break down further or by blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a thicker consistency.

What Can I Serve With Pea And Ham Soup Made From Yellow Split Peas?

Pea and ham soup with yellow split peas is hearty and satisfying on its own, but it can be paired with crusty bread, a side salad, or crackers for added texture and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also enhance the dish.

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