Pea soup, particularly the old-fashioned kind, is like a comforting hug in a bowl-hearty, nourishing, and full of rich flavors. It’s one of those timeless recipes that brings us back to simpler times, where meals were made with basic, wholesome ingredients and cooked slowly to develop deep, savory flavors. If you’ve ever had a bowl of homemade pea soup, you know exactly what I mean. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, yet feels incredibly rewarding.
The beauty of pea soup lies in its simplicity, but don’t be fooled-this dish can be as delicious as it is humble. It’s a classic that has stood the test of time, dating back to ancient civilizations where peas were a staple food for their versatility and ease of cultivation. Today, this soup remains a beloved meal, especially during colder months, as it is both filling and incredibly satisfying.
In this guide, we’re going to dive deep into making an Old-Fashioned Pea Soup, breaking down every aspect, from the ingredients you’ll need to the expert tips that can take your soup from good to great. Let’s get started on this journey to deliciousness!
Old Fashioned Pea Soup Recipe
This recipe is a simple, rustic take on traditional pea soup. You can make it in a large pot or a slow cooker, depending on your preference. It’s rich with the earthy flavor of split peas and seasoned just right with the smoky depth of ham, making it a meal that’s both comforting and fulfilling.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of dried split peas (green or yellow)
- 1 ham bone (or 2 cups of diced ham)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar (optional, but helps balance the flavors)
Cooking Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the split peas thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Chop the vegetables and garlic, and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the veggies have softened and the kitchen is filled with that wonderful aroma of sautéed onions and garlic.
- Add the Broth and Peas: Stir in the split peas, chicken or vegetable broth, and the bay leaf. If you’re using a ham bone, drop it in now. If you’re using diced ham, you can add it later for more texture. Bring everything to a simmer.
- Simmer to Perfection: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, feel free to add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Final Touches: Once the peas are tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the ham bone (if used) and pull off any remaining meat. Stir the meat back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you like, a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar to brighten things up.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with a thick slice of crusty bread or crackers. You’ll find that every spoonful is full of rich, comforting flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Let’s talk about the essential ingredients that make up this classic soup, and why they work so well together.
- Split Peas: Split peas are the base of the soup. They’re packed with protein and fiber, which makes this soup not only filling but also nutritious. When cooked, they soften and break down into a creamy texture that thickens the soup beautifully. The choice between green or yellow split peas is mostly a matter of personal preference, as both will work wonderfully.
- Ham Bone (or Diced Ham): The ham bone is the secret weapon in many old-fashioned recipes. It imparts a smoky, savory flavor that infuses the broth, giving it depth and richness. If you don’t have a ham bone, you can easily use diced ham for similar flavor, though the bone adds something extra in terms of flavor complexity.
- Onions, Carrots, and Celery: These three vegetables form what’s often referred to as the ’holy trinity’ of cooking-often a foundation in soups and stews. They provide a subtle sweetness, earthiness, and crunch that help balance the soup’s richness.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic elevate the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the vegetables and meat.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is the liquid that carries the flavors of all the ingredients. Choose a good-quality broth, as it will play a significant role in the overall taste of the soup. You can even make your own homemade broth for an extra touch of love.
- Herbs: Bay leaves and thyme are classic herbs that bring herbal notes to the soup. They add subtle depth without overpowering the flavor.
Ingredient Insights
- Why Split Peas Work So Well: Split peas are naturally starchy, so they break down easily and thicken the soup without needing any added flour or thickeners. They’re also inexpensive, which is part of the reason why this soup has been a staple in so many kitchens for generations.
- Ham Bone vs. Diced Ham: The ham bone is key for an extra layer of smokiness and richness. It releases collagen and fat into the broth as it simmers, which gives the soup a silky mouthfeel. Diced ham, on the other hand, will still provide that delicious salty, smoky flavor but without the same depth of texture.
- Why Broth Over Water?: Using broth instead of water enhances the overall flavor of the soup, as the broth already contains seasoning and the richness of meat or vegetables. Water, while fine in a pinch, can leave the soup tasting flat.
Expert Tips
- Soaking the Peas: While split peas don’t require soaking like dried beans, doing so overnight can help reduce cooking time and make the peas easier to digest. However, if you’re in a rush, you can skip this step.
- Skimming the Broth: As the soup simmers, you may notice some foam or scum on the surface. Skim this off with a spoon to keep the broth clear and smooth.
- Balancing Flavors: If the soup tastes too salty (especially if using store-bought broth or ham), add a small amount of sugar to mellow it out. A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can also help brighten the flavors.
- Blending for Smoothness: If you prefer a creamy texture, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée part of the soup. Blend it to your desired consistency-some people like it completely smooth, while others enjoy a little texture.
Recipe Variations
There’s plenty of room to get creative with this old-fashioned pea soup, depending on what you have on hand or what your taste buds crave:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. Add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smokiness that the ham would provide.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to bring some heat to the soup. A dash of hot sauce can also do the trick.
- Herb Variations: While thyme and bay leaf are classic choices, you can experiment with rosemary, oregano, or parsley to give your soup a different flavor profile.
- Add Potatoes: For extra heartiness, dice up some potatoes and add them along with the carrots and celery. They’ll make the soup even more filling and give it a wonderful texture.
- Creamy Version: After blending, stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier version of the soup.
Final Words
Old-fashioned pea soup is one of those dishes that never goes out of style. It’s humble but packed with flavor, satisfying but not overly complicated. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or preparing a big pot to feed the family, it’s a meal that will bring people together.
You can make it your own by adjusting the seasoning, adding different veggies, or tweaking the protein used, but the essence of the recipe stays the same-rich, smoky, hearty, and full of comforting flavors.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Typically Used In An Old Fashioned Pea Soup Recipe?
An old fashioned pea soup typically requires split peas, ham or ham hocks, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, and vegetable or chicken broth. Some recipes may also include potatoes and other herbs.
Can I Make Old Fashioned Pea Soup Without Ham?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of old fashioned pea soup by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra seasonings like smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of ham.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Old Fashioned Pea Soup?
Cooking old fashioned pea soup typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The peas need to simmer until they break down and thicken the broth, which can take about 45 minutes to an hour. Additional time is needed for sautéing the vegetables and adding the ham.
Should I Soak The Peas Before Making Old Fashioned Pea Soup?
It is not necessary to soak split peas before cooking them for pea soup. Unlike whole dried peas, split peas soften quickly when cooked. However, soaking them for a few hours can help reduce cooking time.
Can I Use Canned Peas Instead Of Dried Peas For Pea Soup?
While dried peas are recommended for traditional pea soup, you can use canned peas if you’re in a pinch. However, canned peas will not provide the same texture or flavor as dried peas, and you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What Can I Use Instead Of Ham Hocks In Old Fashioned Pea Soup?
If you don’t have ham hocks, you can substitute with other types of smoked meats such as smoked turkey legs, bacon, or a smoked sausage like kielbasa. These options will give the soup a similar depth of flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Old Fashioned Pea Soup?
Yes, old fashioned pea soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop.
How Do I Thicken Old Fashioned Pea Soup?
To thicken pea soup, you can simply let it simmer uncovered to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender to create a smoother, thicker consistency.
Is Old Fashioned Pea Soup Healthy?
Yes, old fashioned pea soup is generally considered healthy. It is rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins from the peas and vegetables. The addition of ham adds flavor and protein, though you can reduce the fat content by using leaner cuts of meat or making a vegetarian version.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To My Old Fashioned Pea Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can add various vegetables to your pea soup for extra flavor and nutrition. Common additions include potatoes, leeks, parsnips, or spinach. Just be mindful of the cooking times for different vegetables.