This crock pot pea soup recipe with ham is the epitome of comfort food. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time, and delivers a rich, savory flavor that's perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. The slow cooking process in the crock pot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply satisfying soup that's both healthy and delicious. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, allowing you to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to create your perfect bowl of pea soup.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ham bone (or about 1 cup chopped cooked ham)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk for a richer soup (stirred in at the end)
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: Place the ham bone (or chopped ham), onion, carrots, and celery in your crock pot.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the ham is easily shredded.
- Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Shred Ham (If Using Bone): Remove the ham bone from the crock pot and shred the meat. Return the shredded ham to the soup.
- Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in Cream (Optional): If using, stir in the heavy cream or milk during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes! You can use any type of ham you prefer – leftover cooked ham, smoked ham, or even a ham steak will work well. Just adjust the amount according to the recipe instructions. If using pre-cooked ham, you can add it at the beginning, or you can add it during the last hour of cooking.
What if I don't have a ham bone?
No problem! You can substitute the ham bone with about 1 cup of chopped cooked ham. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes! The Instant Pot is a great alternative to a slow cooker. You can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery first, then adding the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then, carefully quick release any remaining pressure. Stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How can I thicken this soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Stir constantly until the soup thickens. You could also try adding a mashed potato or two for a creamier texture.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or spinach. Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as bay leaf, sage, or garlic powder. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
This hearty and flavorful crock pot pea soup with ham is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
