If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and soul-satisfying meal, then look no further than Pea and Ham Soup. This is an iconic dish in Australia, popular especially during the cooler months when nothing beats a warm, filling soup. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity – it’s made with just a handful of ingredients that come together to create a deeply flavorful, rich bowl of goodness. What makes it even more special is that it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or a weekend treat when you want something that feels both homely and luxurious at the same time.
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread and a good drizzle of olive oil, but it’s also the type of dish that improves with time. It tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch! Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just to enjoy during the week, Pea and Ham Soup is a must-try Australian classic.
Pea And Ham Soup Australia Recipe
The rich and savory flavor profile of this pea and ham soup will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds). If you’ve never made it from scratch, don’t worry. You don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to pull off this dish; with a few simple steps, you can make this Australian favorite right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
To make Pea and Ham Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients, which are easy to find at most grocery stores:
- Dried split peas: 2 cups (preferably green or yellow split peas). These peas are the star of the soup, providing the base for the creamy texture.
- Ham hock: 1 large ham hock. It’s the key ingredient for that smoky, savory flavor that gives the soup depth. You can also use leftover ham, but the hock is the traditional choice.
- Onion: 1 large, diced. Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Carrot: 2 medium carrots, diced. Sweetness and a bit of texture contrast the peas.
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped. The celery brings in an aromatic, slightly bitter note that balances the richness of the ham.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. A little garlic goes a long way in rounding out the flavor.
- Bay leaves: 2. These are key for infusing the soup with a subtle, earthy aroma.
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or 3-4 fresh sprigs. Thyme adds an herbal, slightly floral note.
- Vegetable or chicken stock: 6 cups. You’ll need a rich broth for the soup base.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Don’t skimp on the seasoning; you’ll want the soup to be perfectly balanced.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons. For sautéing the veggies and creating a good base for the soup.
Optional:
- Parsley: Freshly chopped for garnish.
- Crusty bread: To serve on the side.
Cooking Instructions
Making Pea and Ham Soup is as easy as gathering the ingredients and letting the flavors develop in the pot. Here’s how to do it:
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Prepare The Ingredients
- Rinse the dried split peas under cold water and set them aside.
- Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
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Cook The Ham Hock
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ham hock and sear it on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. This step adds extra flavor to the broth.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, thyme, and bay leaves, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the aromas to release.
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Add The Stock And Peas
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and add the rinsed split peas. Bring everything to a boil.
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Simmer The Soup
- Once the soup has come to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender and the ham hock is falling apart. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
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Remove The Ham Hock
- Take the ham hock out of the soup and set it aside to cool. Once it’s cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bone and shred it. Discard the bone and return the shredded ham to the pot.
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Blend (optional)
- If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend it until smooth, and return it to the pot. If you prefer it chunky, just skip this step.
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Season And Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread on the side.
Ingredient Insights
- Split peas: These peas are dried, split, and peeled, making them quick to cook and perfect for soups. Unlike regular peas, they break down and form a creamy texture when cooked, which is what gives this soup its luscious consistency.
- Ham hock: The ham hock, a cut from the pig’s leg, is full of rich flavor and is often used to make broths and soups. As it simmers, the meat softens and imparts a smoky, salty richness that enhances the pea base. If you can’t find a ham hock, a bone-in ham or leftover ham bones will work well.
- Vegetable or chicken stock: Stock forms the backbone of the soup, and using a rich homemade or high-quality store-bought stock is key. It adds depth and complexity to the soup, balancing out the sweetness of the peas and carrots.
Expert Tips
- Soak the peas: While it’s not strictly necessary, soaking your split peas overnight can reduce cooking time and help them soften more evenly.
- Simmer slowly: The longer you let the soup simmer, the more the flavors meld together. If you have time, let it cook slowly on a low heat for 2-3 hours.
- Use a flavor base: If you want even more flavor, try sautéing a bit of bacon or pancetta along with the onions and carrots before adding the stock. The extra fat from the bacon will infuse the soup with a smoky richness.
- Balance the salt: Ham and stock can be quite salty, so be sure to taste the soup before adding extra salt.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ham hock for smoked paprika and add extra vegetables (like mushrooms or potatoes) for a hearty alternative. You can also add a vegetarian stock.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of dried chili flakes or some freshly chopped chili peppers to bring in a bit of heat.
- Herbal Twist: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano to switch up the flavor profile. Fresh herbs work best, but dried will still do the job.
- Smokier Flavor: If you want to intensify the smoky flavor, try adding a smoked sausage, or if you have access to liquid smoke, a few drops will do wonders.
Final Words
Pea and ham soup is a quintessential Aussie dish that combines the comforting simplicity of split peas with the smoky richness of ham. It’s a soup that warms you from the inside out, making it a perfect meal for chilly evenings. The beauty of this dish is in its flexibility, so whether you’re following the traditional recipe or putting your own spin on it, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In An Australian Pea And Ham Soup Recipe?
The key ingredients in a traditional Australian pea and ham soup include split peas, ham hock (or diced ham), carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and bay leaves. Some recipes may also include potatoes, leeks, or herbs like thyme for added flavor.
Can I Use A Store-bought Ham Instead Of A Ham Hock?
Yes, you can substitute a store-bought ham for a ham hock. However, using a ham hock imparts a richer flavor to the soup due to the bones and connective tissues. If using pre-cooked ham, try to add some additional smoked flavor or ham stock to mimic the depth of flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Pea And Ham Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Cooking pea and ham soup in a slow cooker typically takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. The slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the ham to become tender.
Can I Make Pea And Ham Soup Ahead Of Time And Store It?
Yes, pea and ham soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Do I Need To Soak The Split Peas Before Cooking?
It is not strictly necessary to soak split peas before cooking, but doing so can reduce the cooking time and help avoid any digestive discomfort. If you prefer to skip the soaking step, you can simply cook the peas longer until they soften.
What Can I Add To The Soup To Enhance Its Flavor?
To enhance the flavor of your pea and ham soup, consider adding smoked paprika, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley also add complexity.
Is Pea And Ham Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, pea and ham soup is naturally gluten-free, as the primary ingredients are peas, ham, and vegetables. However, if you’re using any pre-packaged stock or broth, be sure to check for hidden gluten in the ingredients.
How Do I Thicken Pea And Ham Soup?
Pea and ham soup thickens naturally as the split peas break down during cooking. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup, or add mashed potatoes or extra peas.
Can I Make Pea And Ham Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan?
To make a vegetarian or vegan version of pea and ham soup, substitute the ham with plant-based protein, such as smoked tempeh, or use vegetable broth instead of ham stock. You can also add mushrooms for a smoky flavor.
How Can I Make The Soup Spicier?
To add some spice to your pea and ham soup, you can include chili flakes, chopped fresh chili, or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder spice, smoked paprika can also give a subtle warmth.