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Welcome to our ultimate guide to making a delicious slow cooker pea and ham soup! This classic soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you up from the inside out. Our recipe takes advantage of the convenience of a slow cooker to create a flavorful and nutritious soup that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal, this step-by-step guide will help you create a soul-soothing pea and ham soup that will become a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup is a classic comfort dish with a rich history, particularly in Western cuisine. It’s a hearty soup that has graced the tables of homes and restaurants for generations. The origins of pea and ham soup can be traced back to the United Kingdom, where it was popularized as a nourishing and filling meal.
This soup became especially famous in the UK during and after the Second World War when rationing was common. It provided a cost-effective way to feed families using dried peas and leftover ham. The slow cooking process allowed the flavors to meld, resulting in a savory and satisfying dish that warms the soul.
Today, Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup is enjoyed worldwide. It’s a beloved classic for its simplicity, affordability, and, most importantly, its delicious taste. The recipe has evolved over time, with variations that incorporate additional seasonings and vegetables, but the fundamental elements of peas and ham remain at its core.
Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup
Our slow cooker pea and ham soup is a wonderful combination of tender split peas, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying soup. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy and chunky textures, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting lunch or a comforting dinner, this pea and ham soup will warm your heart and nourish your soul.
Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker: Buy On Amazon
- Cutting board: Buy On Amazon
- Knife: Buy On Amazon
- Can opener: Buy On Amazon
- Wooden spoon or ladle: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Immersion blender or regular blender (optional): Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Rinse the dried split peas under cold water and drain.
In the slow cooker, combine the split peas, diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, smoked ham hock or ham bone, chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.
Once cooked, remove the ham hock or bone from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat from the bone and discard any excess fat or skin.
Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender or transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until desired consistency is reached. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the pea and ham soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 354.37kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.91g8%
- Saturated Fat 1.34g7%
- Cholesterol 36.8mg13%
- Sodium 1986.69mg83%
- Potassium 936.92mg27%
- Total Carbohydrate 47.39g16%
- Dietary Fiber 17.85g72%
- Sugars 8.11g
- Protein 31.48g63%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
- If you don't have a slow cooker, you can still make this soup on the stovetop. Simply simmer the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for 1.5-2 hours or until the peas are tender.
- Customize your soup by adding additional vegetables such as potatoes or leeks.
- Make a batch of homemade croutons or serve the soup with a side of warm crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pea and ham soup as a standalone meal with a side of crusty bread or rolls.
- Accompany it with a fresh green salad for a lighter lunch or dinner option.
- Pair it with a glass of white wine or a light-bodied red wine for a complete dining experience.
Allergen Information:
While Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup is not inherently allergenic, it's important to consider specific allergens based on the ingredients used. Here are some allergen-related considerations:
Ham: If you or your guests have pork allergies or are vegetarian or vegan, you can make a meatless version using smoked tofu or a ham substitute.
Chicken or Beef Broth: Some recipes call for chicken or beef broth. Ensure you use a suitable broth if dietary restrictions or allergies are a concern. There are allergen-free and plant-based broth options available.
Gluten: Certain recipes may incorporate flour as a thickening agent. If gluten is a concern, use gluten-free flour or omit this ingredient.
Dairy (Optional): Some variations may include cream or milk. If dairy allergies are a concern, use lactose-free or plant-based alternatives.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup pairs well with a variety of beverages. Here are some options to consider:
White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy texture of the soup. The acidity in the wine balances the richness of the dish.
Beer: Opt for a light lager or a mild ale. The effervescence and maltiness of beer enhance the flavors of the soup.
Cider: A semi-dry or dry cider offers a refreshing contrast to the soup's savory and smoky notes. The slight sweetness in the cider complements the ham.
Water: If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a glass of cold water is a simple yet effective choice. It cleanses the palate between spoonfuls of soup.
Storage and Leftovers:
Properly storing and reheating Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup is essential to maintain its flavor and quality:
Refrigeration: Allow any leftover soup to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, use a stovetop or microwave. Heat the soup slowly, stirring occasionally, to prevent separation. If it thickens too much upon reheating, add a little broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
