Slow Cooker Pea And Ham Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

The Rich Tradition of Pea and Ham Soup 🌟

Peas and ham have long been staples in traditional cooking, and their union in a slow cooker creates one of the most comforting dishes you can prepare. Pea and ham soup is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl, perfect for cold winter nights or when you're in need of some soul-warming comfort. This blog post will guide you through the intricacies of making a spectacular slow cooker pea and ham soup, the ultimate comfort food.

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Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards a delicious pea and ham soup:

• 1 pound (about 450 grams) of dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 leftover ham bone or ham hock, with some meat attached
• 2 cups of chopped ham
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking:

• Soak the peas: If you’re using dried peas, they'll benefit from an overnight soak. This reduces cooking time and ensures they're tender in the soup.
• Prep the vegetables: Chop your onions, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots and celery. This can be done the night before for an easier morning start.

<p class="pro-note">🌟 Note: Soaking the peas overnight will significantly decrease cooking time.</p>

Cooking Instructions

Here's how to turn these ingredients into the ultimate comfort food:

1. Layer the Base Ingredients:

• Begin by layering your rinsed peas into the slow cooker pot. This forms the base of the soup, absorbing all the flavors as they cook.

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2. Add the Flavor:

• Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery on top of the peas.
• Place the ham bone or hock in the center.
• Pour in the chicken broth until everything is just covered.
• Add the bay leaf and sprinkle the thyme over the top.

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3. Cook:

• Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 8-10 hours. For a quicker cook, you can use high for 4-5 hours. Remember, slow cooking is key for developing deep flavors.

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4. Final Touches:

• After the cooking time, remove the ham bone or hock, strip off any remaining meat, and return it to the soup. Discard the bone.
• Stir in the chopped ham, allowing it to warm through.

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5. Season and Serve:

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, thin it with some water or more broth.
• Serve hot, perhaps with a crusty piece of bread or a simple green salad.

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Tips for the Perfect Pea and Ham Soup

• Quality of Ham: The better the ham, the richer the soup. Use leftover holiday ham bones for an authentic flavor or go for high-quality ham hocks.
• Slow Cooking: Remember, the longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor. Low and slow is your friend here.
• Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion or all of it. If you like it chunkier, just give it a few stirs to break up the peas.

<p class="pro-note">👨‍🍳 Note: For a thicker soup, let the peas cook for a longer time. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the ham back in.</p>

Variations to Consider

While the classic recipe is a winner, here are some creative twists:

• Vegan Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a 'meaty' flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with rosemary, basil, or even fresh mint for a twist on the flavor profile.

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Nutritional Benefits

Pea and ham soup isn't just comforting; it's nutritious:

• High in Protein: Thanks to the ham and peas, this soup is a protein powerhouse.
• Fiber: Split peas are loaded with dietary fiber, which is great for digestion.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots, celery, and onions add vitamins A, K, C, and numerous minerals.

Final Thoughts

Pea and ham soup made in a slow cooker is not just about warmth; it's about creating a dish that connects you with traditional cooking, nourishing your body, and comforting your soul. The simplicity of its preparation allows for deep flavor development over time, making it a perfect meal for any busy cook or anyone who appreciates slow, mindful cooking.

With every spoonful, you’re not just eating; you're experiencing a piece of culinary history that has been cherished for generations. So, the next time the chill sets in or you're in need of some comfort, remember this recipe. It's simple, it's delicious, and most importantly, it's love in a bowl.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Do I need to soak the peas before cooking?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Soaking split peas overnight can reduce cooking time and ensure they get tender in the soup. However, it's optional; you can still make the soup with unsoaked peas, but it will take longer to cook.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use a ham hock instead of a ham bone?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, a ham hock can be used instead of a ham bone. It provides similar flavor and gelatin to enrich the soup.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I make this soup vegetarian?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For the smoky flavor, you can add liquid smoke or smoked paprika.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I freeze leftover pea and ham soup?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are some good pairings with this soup?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a more substantial meal, you might consider garlic bread or even cheese scones to soak up the delicious broth.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>