This recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful pea soup elevated with the savory richness of ham. Perfect for a chilly evening or a light yet satisfying lunch, this hearty soup is surprisingly easy to make and endlessly customizable to your taste. We'll explore different variations and answer common questions to help you create the perfect bowl of ham and pea soup.
What are the best types of peas to use for pea soup?
You can achieve delicious results with both fresh or frozen peas. Fresh peas offer a slightly sweeter flavor and a brighter green color, but frozen peas are just as convenient and deliver excellent results, especially when you need a quick weeknight meal. Avoid using canned peas as they tend to be mushy and lack the vibrant flavor of fresh or frozen peas.
How do I make ham and pea soup creamy?
The creaminess of this soup can be achieved in several ways. The most classic method involves using heavy cream or crème fraîche stirred in at the end. However, for a lighter version, you can use milk or half-and-half. Alternatively, pureeing a portion of the soup with an immersion blender creates a naturally creamy texture without adding extra dairy. This method also intensifies the pea flavor.
Can I use leftover ham for this soup?
Absolutely! Leftover ham bone, ham steaks, or diced ham are all excellent choices. Using leftover ham is a great way to minimize food waste and add depth of flavor to your soup. The bone, in particular, imparts a rich, savory flavor that elevates the entire dish. If using a bone, be sure to simmer it in the soup for at least an hour to extract maximum flavor.
How long does ham and pea soup take to cook?
The cooking time depends largely on whether you're using dried or fresh/frozen peas. Dried peas require a longer cooking time (often an hour or more) to become tender. Fresh or frozen peas typically only need about 15-20 minutes to cook through. The total cooking time, including the simmering of the ham bone (if using one), usually falls between 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
What are some variations of ham and pea soup?
This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation! Consider these variations:
- Spicy Ham and Pea Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Herby Ham and Pea Soup: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can enhance the flavors beautifully. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrancy.
- Potato Ham and Pea Soup: Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness and a thicker consistency.
- Creamy Ham and Pea Soup with Mint: A surprising but delicious twist, adding fresh mint at the end brings a refreshing coolness.
Is ham and pea soup good for leftovers?
Yes! Ham and pea soup is even better the next day. The flavors meld together, creating an even richer and more complex taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Ingredients for Creamy Ham and Pea Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas (or 1 1/2 cups fresh peas)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk/half-and-half)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Creamy Ham and Pea Soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add frozen peas (or fresh peas if using), chicken broth, and diced ham. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes (or longer if using dried peas).
- Stir in heavy cream (or milk/half-and-half). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This recipe offers a delicious and versatile foundation. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own signature ham and pea soup. Enjoy!
