Split Pea Soup With Ham
Never underestimate the power of split pea soup with ham - a timeless classic that's more than just a simple comfort food. But what's its secret?
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Measuring Cups
- Ladle
- Immersion Blender (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb split peas (dried)
- 1 onion (large, diced)
- 2 cups ham (diced)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Rinse and Sort PeasBefore diving into the cooking process, it's vital to rinse and sort your split peas. This step might seem tedious, but it's important for ensuring the quality and safety of your soup. Start by spreading the peas on a clean, flat surface. Look for any small stones, debris, or discolored peas, and remove them.Once you've sorted through the peas, transfer them to a colander and rinse thoroughly under cool running water.Why is this step so important? Well, not only does it remove any dirt or residue, but it also helps you identify any peas that might be damaged or spoiled. Plus, rinsing can enhance the peas' natural flavor and reduce cooking time.Did you know that split peas are packed with health benefits? They're high in fiber and protein, making them an excellent base for various meal variations.As you rinse, why not consider how you might adapt this recipe to suit your tastes? Perhaps you'll add some extra vegetables or experiment with different spices.
- Chop Vegetables and HamNow that your split peas are clean and sorted, it's time to prep the other ingredients.Let's focus on chopping the vegetables and ham, an essential step in creating a flavorful soup. You'll need to dice one large onion, which not only adds depth to the dish but also provides numerous vegetable benefits, including antioxidants and fiber.For the ham, you'll want to cut it into bite-sized cubes. Have you considered which ham varieties work best? While the recipe calls for generic diced ham, you could experiment with smoked or honey-cured options for unique flavor profiles.As you chop, think about the size of your pieces. Aim for uniform cuts to guarantee even cooking and a consistent texture in every spoonful.
- Combine Ingredients in PotOnce you've prepped all your ingredients, it's time for the soup-making magic to begin. Grab your large pot and toss in the split peas, diced onion, and ham. Can you already imagine the aroma that'll soon fill your kitchen?Now, pour in the chicken broth and add that bay leaf for an extra layer of flavor. You're not just combining ingredients; you're creating a nutritional powerhouse. Did you know split peas are packed with fiber and protein?As you bring the mixture to a boil, consider the flavor variations you could explore. Maybe you'd like to add some carrots or celery next time?Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer. This is where patience pays off. Over the next hour, you'll want to stir occasionally, watching as the peas break down and the soup thickens.It's like a delicious science experiment happening right on your stovetop! Remember, if it gets too thick, you can always thin it out with a bit more broth. How's that for easy cooking?
- Simmer and Stir OccasionallyAfter bringing the soup to a boil, you'll want to turn down the heat to low and cover the pot. This is where the magic happens! As the soup simmers, the split peas will gradually break down, creating that signature creamy texture you're after.But don't just set it and forget it - you'll need to give it some attention. Every 15 minutes or so, lift the lid and give the soup a good stir. This not only prevents the peas from sticking to the bottom but also helps distribute the flavors evenly.As you stir, take a moment to inhale the amazing aroma. Isn't it mouthwatering? You might notice the soup's texture changing over time. That's perfectly normal and exactly what you want! The longer it simmers, the more the peas will break down, enhancing both the texture and flavor.Want to boost the flavor even more? Try crushing some of the peas against the side of the pot with your spoon as you stir. This little trick can really amp up the soup's richness.
- Blend for Smoother ConsistencyFor those who prefer a velvety smooth texture, blending the soup is an optional but rewarding step. Once your split pea soup has finished simmering, you'll have a naturally thick consistency. But why stop there? Let's explore how you can elevate your soup texture to new heights.You've got a few blending methods at your disposal. An immersion blender is your best bet, allowing you to puree the soup right in the pot. Simply submerge the blender and pulse until you achieve your desired smoothness.Don't have an immersion blender? No worries! A regular blender works too, but you'll need to work in batches. Fill it about halfway, secure the lid, and blend until smooth. Remember to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any hot soup mishaps.Want to keep some texture? Try partial blending. Blend half the soup and mix it back with the unblended portion. This gives you the best of both worlds: creamy base with chunks of ham and vegetables.Isn't it amazing how a simple blending step can transform your soup?
Nutrition
Calories: 393kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 30gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 34mgSodium: 1438mgPotassium: 944mgFiber: 20gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 119IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 59mgIron: 4mg