Split Pea Soup with Ham

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Introduction

Split Pea Soup with Ham is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any season, especially on a cold, chilly day. This classic soup combines tender split peas with savory ham, creating a rich and flavorful bowl that is both filling and satisfying. The soup’s smooth texture, combined with the smoky ham, makes for a delicious meal that’s as comforting as it is nutritious. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, Split Pea Soup with Ham is sure to impress. This version of the recipe is Halal-friendly, with no pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol, ensuring it’s suitable for all dietary preferences.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Meal prepping
• Cozy winter meals
• Holiday gatherings (Halal-friendly)
• A healthy, hearty lunch

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe

Here’s why Split Pea Soup with Ham will become your new go-to soup recipe:

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of split peas and tender ham creates a soup that is rich in flavor and texture, making it a complete meal in a bowl.
• Nutritious: Split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Paired with the ham, this soup provides a well-rounded, wholesome meal.
• Comforting and Cozy: There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup, especially with the smokiness of the ham that adds depth and richness.
• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together easily with simple ingredients, and it can be simmered for a long time to develop deep, comforting flavors without requiring constant attention.
• Halal-Friendly: The recipe is free from pork, bacon, wine, and alcohol, making it suitable for those who follow a Halal diet.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 7g, Fiber: 10g

Ingredients for Split Pea Soup with Ham

To make a hearty and delicious bowl of Split Pea Soup with Ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups dried split peas (green or yellow)
• 1 lb Halal-certified smoked ham (no pork), diced (or use chicken or turkey ham for a lighter option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for brightening the flavors)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights for Split Pea Soup with Ham

• Split Peas: Split peas are packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy and filling addition to any soup. They also break down during cooking to create a naturally thick, creamy texture without the need for cream or flour.
• Halal Ham: In this version, we use Halal-certified smoked ham (which is typically made from chicken, turkey, or beef), offering the same smoky flavor you’d expect from traditional ham without any pork products. It’s a great alternative for those who follow a Halal diet.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions (the classic “mirepoix”) form the aromatic base of the soup, adding depth and sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Herbs and Spices: Thyme, bay leaves, and parsley are traditional seasonings for split pea soup, enhancing the savory and earthy flavors. Lemon juice can be added to brighten the soup and balance its richness.

Step-by-Step

Instructions for Split Pea Soup with Ham

Making this delicious soup is easy and straightforward! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Split Pea Soup with Ham:

Prepare the Soup Base:

1. Rinse the Split Peas: Begin by rinsing the split peas thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Liquids and Seasonings:

4. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version) to the pot, followed by the rinsed split peas.
5. Season the Soup: Stir in the dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Simmer and Cook:

6. Add the Ham: Once the soup comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and add the diced Halal ham. Stir to combine and allow the soup to simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas have broken down and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure the peas don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
7. Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick for your liking, feel free to add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Final Touches:

8. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed. If desired, add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
9. Serve: Once the soup is thick and the peas are tender, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

How to Serve Split Pea Soup with Ham

Split Pea Soup with Ham is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, for dipping and to add some texture to the meal.
• With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a light salad, like a simple mixed green salad or a Mediterranean-style salad, to balance the richness of the soup.
• Topped with Cheese: For extra flavor, top your soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese.
• As a Main or Side Dish: This soup is hearty enough to serve as a main dish on its own, but it also makes an excellent side dish when paired with roasted meats or sandwiches.

Additional Tips for Split Pea Soup with Ham

Here are some helpful tips to make your Split Pea Soup with Ham even better:

• Use Leftover Ham: If you have leftover Halal-certified ham from a previous meal, this soup is a great way to repurpose it and reduce food waste.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can make this soup in a slow cooker! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender and the flavors have melded together.
• Make It Vegetarian: To make the soup vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables or even some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Freeze for Later: Split Pea Soup with Ham freezes wonderfully! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations of Split Pea Soup with Ham

Here are 10 variations of Split Pea Soup with Ham to try:

• Chicken Ham Split Pea Soup: Use Halal chicken or turkey ham for a lighter version of the soup.
• Smoky Bacon Split Pea Soup: For those who consume bacon, you can swap in Halal turkey bacon for a smoky twist.
• Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Split Pea Soup: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of the soup.
• Curried Split Pea Soup: Add a tablespoon of curry powder to the soup for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Split Pea Soup with Sweet Potatoes: Add cubed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and heartier soup.
• Lentil and Split Pea Soup: Combine lentils and split peas for a variation with more texture.
• Split Pea Soup with Kale: Stir in chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for added greens.
• Tomato-Based Split Pea Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist on the classic recipe.
• Split Pea Soup with Quinoa: Add cooked quinoa for an extra boost of protein and texture.

Freezing and Storage for Split Pea Soup with Ham

• Freezing: Split Pea Soup with Ham freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or heat directly from frozen on the stove, adding a little extra broth if needed.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Special Equipment for Split Pea Soup with Ham

Here are some tools that will help make your Split Pea Soup with Ham easier to prepare:

• Large Pot: A sturdy, large pot is essential for simmering the soup and making sure the peas cook evenly.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping vegetables and ham much easier and quicker.
• Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
• Ladle: A ladle helps to serve the soup in an easy, mess-free way.
• Storage Containers: Airtight containers are necessary for storing leftovers or freezing the soup.

FAQ Section about Split Pea Soup with Ham

1. Can I make this soup without ham?
   Yes, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.
2. Can I use dried lentils instead of split peas?
   While lentils cook faster and have a slightly different texture, you can substitute them for split peas. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
3. Can I use a pressure cooker for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to speed up the process. Cook for about 25-30 minutes on high pressure, then allow the pressure to release naturally.
4. How do I know when the soup is done?
   The soup is done when the split peas are tender and have broken down to create a thick, creamy consistency.
5. Can I use fresh ham instead of smoked ham?
   Yes, you can use fresh ham, but smoked ham adds a unique flavor. If using fresh ham, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor.

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Conclusion of Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe

Split Pea Soup with Ham is a comforting, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, smoky flavor, hearty texture, and simple ingredients, it’s a soup that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal to prepare ahead of time, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Easy to make, customizable, and Halal-friendly, it’s a soup that is perfect for any family or gathering. Enjoy!