ham bone pea soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
ham bone pea soup recipe
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The Best ham bone pea soup recipe

I’ve been making ham bone pea soup for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The dish originated from traditional Southern American cuisine, where it was often served at family gatherings and community events.

I love how the rich flavor of the ham bone pairs with the sweetness of the peas, creating a delicious and comforting meal. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. My kids adore this soup, and it’s become a regular request for them when they’re feeling under the weather.

Not only is it tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. I often serve it with some crusty bread or over rice, which helps to soak up all the flavorful broth. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, and it freezes beautifully for later use.

The key to making this soup is to use high-quality ingredients, especially the ham bone, which should be rich and full of flavor. I like to use leftover ham bones from special occasions or purchase them from my local butcher shop. When cooking the soup, I like to add in some aromatics like onions and garlic to give it an extra depth of flavor.

The resulting broth is always rich and savory, making this soup a true comfort food classic.

Ham Bone Pea Soup

Ham Bone Pea Soup

4.6 from 1212 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with a leftover ham bone and split peas. This slow-simmered soup is rich, smoky, and perfect for a cold day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 ham bone (with some meat attached)
1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste (optional, ham is salty)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the ham bone in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2Cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is lightly browned and some fat has rendered.
3Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot.
4Cook over medium heat, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
5Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and black pepper.
6Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the rinsed split peas, bay leaves, and chicken broth.
7Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
8Simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are tender and falling apart and the ham meat is falling off the bone.
9Remove the ham bone from the pot and let it cool slightly.
10Using two forks, shred any meat from the bone, discarding any fat or gristle.
11Return the shredded ham to the soup and stir well.
12Remove and discard the bay leaves.
13Taste the soup and add salt if needed, keeping in mind the ham is already salty.
14Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot or Dutch oven
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 44g🥦Dietary Fiber: 16g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a thicker soup, mash some of the peas against the side of the pot before serving. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Ham Bone Pea Soup Works

This ham bone pea soup recipe has become a staple in our household, and I highly recommend giving it a try. It’s an excellent choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and can be reheated for future meals. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it freezes – simply store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat when needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Bone Pea Soup

Q: What type of ham bone is best for this recipe?

I prefer to use a smoked or cured ham bone for this recipe as it provides a richer flavor profile compared to fresh ham bones.

Q: Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Sure, frozen peas will work just fine in this recipe.

Q: How long does the soup take to cook?

The cooking time will depend on whether you’re using a slow cooker or stovetop method.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as diced carrots or sliced celery.

Q: Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

No, due to the presence of ham bone in the recipe.

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