Split pea soup with ham is classic comfort food, especially on a cold day. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover holiday ham!
Want to make your own? This article will show you how to make a delicious split pea soup with ham, and we’ll also break down the nutrition information, including the calorie count, so you know exactly what you’re eating.
Understanding split pea soup with ham
Split pea soup is made primarily from dried split peas, typically the green or yellow variety. It’s a dish that’s been around for centuries.
The ham in split pea soup adds a savory, smoky flavor, as well as a significant boost of protein. It’s common to make this soup with leftover ham, especially around the holidays. That leftover Thanksgiving or Christmas ham will work perfectly in this recipe!
RECIPE: Making Split Pea Soup with Ham
If you’re looking for a tasty way to use up leftover holiday ham, split pea soup is a great choice.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried split peas
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 quart chicken stock
- 2 ½ cups water
- Optional vegetables (onion, carrots, celery), diced
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, bay leaf, thyme)
If you don’t have these ingredients on hand, here are a few substitutions you could try:
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Try smoked turkey or bacon instead of ham.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the split peas.
- (Optional) Sauté diced vegetables (onion, carrots, celery) in a pot until softened.
- Add split peas, ham, chicken stock, water, and seasonings to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If the soup becomes too thick, add more water to reach desired consistency.
- Remove bay leaf and adjust seasonings to taste.
Crockpot Instructions
For an even easier version of this recipe, you can make it in a crockpot. Just add all the ingredients to the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the peas are tender.
Nutritional Information
One serving of split pea soup with ham contains approximately 374 calories.
Here’s the breakdown of macronutrients:
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Protein: 25g
Split pea soup with ham is also a great source of:
- Vitamin C (25% Daily Value)
- Iron (17% Daily Value)
- Fiber (54% Daily Value)
Based on a 2,000-calorie diet, one serving also provides 18% of your daily fat needs and 52% of your daily sodium.
What to serve with split pea soup
Split pea soup makes a hearty meal all on its own, but it’s even better with the right sides and toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Bread: A crusty bread or roll is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Toppings: Consider adding croutons, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Side dishes: A simple salad or grilled cheese sandwich complements the soup nicely.
Storing and reheating leftover split pea soup
Here’s how to store and reheat your leftover split pea soup with ham:
- Storage: Let the soup cool completely. Then, put it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze split pea soup for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space at the top of the container for the liquid to expand.
- Reheating: You can reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If it’s too thick, add a little water or broth.
Closing Thoughts
Making split pea soup with ham at home is easier than you might think, and the results are sure to be satisfying. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, and adjust the amount of ham to your liking. There’s no wrong way to make it your own!
So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of split pea soup!