Split Pea Soup with Ham

Warm up with this hearty and delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham recipe! Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal on a chilly day.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried split peas
• 1 large ham hock or ham bone
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the split peas, ham hock, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
3. Remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat. Return the meat to the pot and discard the bone.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread.

Popular questions:

• Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham hock?

Yes, you can use smoked turkey legs or bacon as a substitute for the ham hock.

• Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of this soup.

• How can I make this soup thicker?

You can blend some of the soup in a blender or use an immersion blender to achieve a thicker consistency.

• Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

• How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Helpful tips:

• Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors of the soup.
• Top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika for a subtle kick of heat.
• For a thicker soup, let it sit for a bit after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Expert Secrets:

• For a richer flavor, brown the ham hock in a hot pan before adding it to the soup.
• Use a combination of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves to enhance the aroma of the soup.
• Adding a splash of white wine while cooking the soup can elevate the depth of flavors.
• For a smokier taste, stir in a tablespoon of liquid smoke before simmering the soup.