There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of soup that brings together rich, hearty flavors in one single, satisfying dish. Pea Soup with Hambone is one of those timeless recipes that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a meal that feels like home. The combination of tender peas, savory ham, and a few simple seasonings creates a deep, flavorful broth that’s both filling and delicious. Whether you’re making it after a big holiday dinner or simply because you want to use up that leftover ham, this recipe checks all the boxes for a hearty, comforting meal.
If you’ve ever had a hearty bowl of pea soup, you know that the flavor intensifies over time as it simmers and the ingredients meld together. The ham bone is key in infusing the soup with a deep, smoky, and savory flavor that brings it to life. So, let’s dive into this recipe, from the ingredients you’ll need to the step-by-step instructions, and a few tips and variations to make it your own.
Pea Soup Hambone Recipe
This Pea Soup with Hambone recipe is a great way to transform leftover ham into something truly magical. It’s a hearty, savory soup that’s simple to make, yet packed with flavor. Let’s walk through the ingredients, cooking process, and some expert tips to make sure you nail it every time.
Ingredients Needed
To make a delicious pot of pea soup with a hambone, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 leftover hambone (with some meat still attached)
- 1 pound split green peas (dried)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water (optional, if you prefer a thinner soup)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- Chopped parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Some variations might include adding potatoes or substituting the broth for ham stock if you have it. But the basic ingredients are simple and straightforward!
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the process. Pea soup is incredibly forgiving, but patience is key to developing those deep, savory flavors. Follow these steps for the best results:
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Prep The Ingredients
Start by dicing your vegetables-onions, carrots, celery-and mincing the garlic. This will help the flavors develop more evenly as the soup simmers.
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Sauté The Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
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Add The Split Peas And Broth
Add the dried split peas to the pot, stirring them into the vegetable mixture. Then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the water (if you’re using it). Give everything a good stir.
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Add The Hambone
Nestle the hambone into the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the broth. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using) for extra flavor. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and check for seasoning.
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Shred The Ham
After the soup has simmered and the ham has become tender, remove the hambone from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then use a fork to shred the remaining ham off the bone. Discard the bone and return the shredded ham to the pot.
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Final Adjustments
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you like a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup (or all of it, if you prefer a creamy texture). Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for the full experience.
Ingredient Insights
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect pea soup:
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Split Green Peas
Split peas are the heart of pea soup. They break down as they cook, giving the soup a creamy texture and adding a mild, earthy flavor. They’re packed with protein and fiber, making them a filling ingredient for a hearty meal.
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Hambone
The hambone is the secret to the rich, smoky flavor that makes this soup stand out. As it simmers, the bone imparts a depth of flavor that transforms the broth into something truly special. Even if there’s only a little bit of meat left on the bone, it still contributes a ton of taste.
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Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion, Garlic)
These aromatic vegetables provide the foundational flavors for the soup. They give a subtle sweetness and balance out the smokiness of the ham and the earthiness of the peas. Garlic, in particular, adds a bit of depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.
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Herbs & Seasonings
Bay leaves, thyme, and smoked paprika (if used) help infuse the soup with herbal and smoky notes. A little salt and pepper round out the flavors, enhancing the savory profile of the soup.
Expert Tips
To take your pea soup to the next level, here are some expert tips:
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Let It Rest
Like many soups, this pea soup tastes even better the next day. Letting it rest overnight allows the flavors to develop and meld. If you have the time, make it a day in advance!
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Use Ham Stock
If you have ham stock or any leftover broth from cooking a ham, use it in place of the chicken broth for an even richer taste.
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Don’t Skip The Smoked Paprika
While optional, smoked paprika adds an extra layer of smokiness that complements the ham beautifully. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, it’s worth adding.
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For A Smoother Soup
If you prefer a smoother texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender, or transfer some to a regular blender and purée before returning it to the pot.
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Adjust Consistency
If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth or water as it cooks.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about pea soup is how adaptable it is. You can play around with the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:
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Add Potatoes
Adding diced potatoes will make the soup even heartier and give it a creamier consistency as they break down while cooking.
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Use Different Meats
If you don’t have a hambone, try using bacon, ham steak, or even turkey for a slightly different flavor profile. Smoked turkey legs can provide a similar smoky depth.
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Spicy Version
For a kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup. The heat will balance the richness of the peas and ham.
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Vegetarian Version
You can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth. Add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.
Final Words
Pea Soup with Hambone is a beautiful example of how simple, humble ingredients can come together to create something incredibly flavorful. It’s hearty, nutritious, and packed with layers of taste that only get better with time. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing a big pot for a family gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit.
The combination of split peas, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables creates a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug. And with the potential to adjust the recipe to your liking, you can make it as simple or complex as you wish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that leftover ham, reducing food waste while still enjoying a delicious meal.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For A Pea Soup Hambone Recipe?
To make a basic pea soup with a hambone, you’ll need dried split peas, a hambone (with some meat still on it), carrots, celery, onions, garlic, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and chicken or vegetable broth. You can also add thyme or other herbs to enhance the flavor.
Can I Use A Fresh Ham Bone Instead Of A Smoked One For Pea Soup?
Yes, you can use a fresh ham bone, but the soup will lack the deep smoky flavor that a smoked hambone provides. If using a fresh ham bone, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the flavor of a smoked ham bone.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Pea Soup With A Hambone?
Cooking pea soup with a hambone typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on the stovetop. However, cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of hambone, as well as how soft you like the peas. In a slow cooker, it can take 6-8 hours on low heat.
Should I Soak Split Peas Before Making Pea Soup With A Hambone?
It’s not strictly necessary to soak dried split peas before cooking, but soaking them for 6-8 hours can help reduce cooking time and make the peas more digestible. If you choose not to soak them, just be prepared for a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I Make Pea Soup With A Hambone In A Pressure Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Yes, a pressure cooker or Instant Pot can significantly reduce cooking time. If using a pressure cooker, cook the soup on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes, and let it naturally release pressure. It’s a great option if you’re short on time.
What Can I Do If My Pea Soup With A Hambone Turns Out Too Thick?
If your pea soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding more broth or water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir the soup frequently while adding liquid to ensure it combines well.
Can I Add Vegetables Other Than The Traditional Carrots, Celery, And Onions?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to your pea soup, such as potatoes, parsnips, leeks, or turnips. These additions will alter the flavor and texture slightly, but they can complement the soup very well.
How Do I Store And Reheat Leftover Pea Soup With A Hambone?
Leftover pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, simply heat it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. If frozen, allow the soup to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Use A Hambone From A Different Meat, Such As A Turkey, In Pea Soup?
While a turkey bone can work as a substitute, it will create a slightly different flavor profile than a traditional pork ham bone. The result may be a bit lighter, but it can still make a delicious soup. Consider adding additional seasonings to balance the flavor.
What Is The Best Way To Shred The Ham From The Hambone For Pea Soup?
Once the hambone is cooked and the soup has reached the desired consistency, remove the bone from the pot. Use two forks or your hands to shred the meat off the bone, discarding any excess fat. Add the shredded ham back into the soup and stir to combine.