Split pea and ham soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. This crockpot version of the classic soup is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With tender split peas, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 1hr 15mins |
History of Split Pea and Ham Soup
Split pea and ham soup have been a staple in many cultures for centuries. The dish is believed to have originated in Northern Europe, where peas were a common crop. Over time, split pea and ham soup spread to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it became a popular comfort food. Today, split pea and ham soup is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often served as a hearty meal during the colder months.
Why Choose Split Pea and Ham Soup
Split pea and ham soup is a great choice for a meal because it is nutritious, delicious, and easy to make. The combination of split peas and ham provides a good source of protein and fiber, making this soup both filling and satisfying. Plus, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to please your taste buds.
What is Split Pea and Ham Soup Made of?
Split pea and ham soup are made from simple ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores. The main components of this soup are dried split peas, ham hocks or ham bone, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken broth. You can also add other seasonings and spices, such as thyme, bay leaves, and pepper, to enhance the flavor of the soup.
What to Have with Split Pea and Ham Soup
Split pea and ham soup can be served on its own as a complete meal, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. You can also garnish the soup with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Is Split Pea and Ham Soup Healthy?
Split pea and ham soup is a healthy option for a meal because it is low in fat and high in fiber. The split peas provide a good source of protein and fiber, while the ham adds flavor and a source of protein. However, this soup can be high in sodium, so it’s important to use low-sodium chicken broth and ham to reduce the sodium content.
Kitchen Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 2 ham hocks or 1 ham bone
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Place the split peas, ham hocks or ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in a crockpot or slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.
- Remove the ham hocks or ham bone from the soup and shred the meat, discarding any bones and excess fat.
- Return the shredded ham to the soup and stir to combine. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve the split pea and ham soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup until smooth.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Conclusion
Split pea and ham soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. With its tender split peas, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. So why not give this easy crockpot recipe a try and enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl of split pea and ham soup?
MORE RECIPES
Split Pea and Ham Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 2 ham hocks or 1 ham bone
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the split peas, ham hocks or ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in a crockpot or slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.
- Remove the ham hocks or ham bone from the soup and shred the meat, discarding any bones and excess fat.
- Return the shredded ham to the soup and stir to combine. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve the split pea and ham soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover ham instead of ham hocks or ham bone? A: Yes, you can use leftover ham instead of ham hocks or ham bone. Simply add the leftover ham to the soup during the last hour of cooking.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ham hocks or ham bone and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables, such as potatoes or parsnips, for added flavor.
I hope you find this Recipe informative. If you have any further questions or need any adjustments, please feel free to let me know!