This hearty and flavorful crock pot pea soup with ham is the perfect recipe for a chilly evening. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and allowing your slow cooker to do all the work. The result is a creamy, satisfying soup bursting with the savory goodness of ham and sweet peas. This recipe is adaptable to your preferences, allowing you to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to create your perfect bowl.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked ham bone (or 1 cup diced ham)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen peas
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk for a creamier soup
Equipment:
- 6-quart slow cooker or larger
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: Add the ham bone (or diced ham), onion, carrots, and celery to your slow cooker.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Remove Ham Bone (if using): If you used a ham bone, remove it from the soup and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat from the bone and return it to the soup. Discard the bone.
- Blend (optional): For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend 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 enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can absolutely use a different type of ham. While a smoked ham bone provides a deep, smoky flavor, you can also use a bone-in ham steak, a fully cooked ham, or even leftover ham. Just adjust the amount according to your preference and the saltiness of the ham. If using a pre-cooked ham, you may want to reduce the cooking time.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry. To make a slurry, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this into the soup during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can add a handful of cooked barley, rice or potatoes for added thickness.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prepping! It tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What are some variations for this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Adding potatoes, diced turnips, or spinach would be delicious additions. You could also add a bay leaf for extra depth of flavor, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a richer taste. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors nicely.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This crock pot pea soup with ham recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple preparation, delicious flavor, and adaptability make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy!
