Split Pea Smoked Ham soup has been my go-to comfort dish for chilly evenings. This hearty meal not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul, making it an essential part of my cooking repertoire. The combination of split peas and smoked ham creates a rich, flavorful broth that is both satisfying and fulfilling. With a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy this classic dish that embodies warmth and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Smoked Ham

This dish is not just delicious; it’s also packed with benefits. Here’s why you’ll adore this smoked ham and split pea recipe:

Perfect for chilly evenings, providing warmth and comfort.
Rich in protein, thanks to the split peas with ham hock.
High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
Easy to prepare, especially with a split pea and ham slow cooker recipe.
Versatile; you can customize it with various vegetables.
Freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
Offers a fantastic flavor profile that balances smoky and savory notes.
Gluten-free, suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Split Pea Smoked Ham

Gather these items:

1 cup Green Split Peas (Dried yellow split peas or lentils can be substituted)
2 pcs Smoked Ham Hocks (Substitute with diced cooked ham if unavailable)
1 cup Leek (Can replace with green onions or shallots)
1 cup Onion (Yellow or white onions work well)
2 cloves Garlic (Use fresh or powdered garlic as needed)
1 teaspoon Turmeric (Can be replaced with curry powder)
2 pcs Carrot (Substitute with parsnips if desired)
2 stalks Celery (Omit if unavailable or replace with bell peppers)
1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Adjust based on preference)
6 cups Vegetable Stock (Chicken stock can be a suitable alternative)
2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Use vinegar if lemon isn’t on hand)
1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Adjust to taste)
1 bunch Kale (Can substitute with Swiss chard or spinach)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Any neutral oil can be used)
1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Sprinkle to taste before baking)

How to Make Split Pea Smoked Ham Step-by-Step

Step 1: Begin by rinsing the split peas under cold water to remove any debris.
Step 2: In your slow cooker, place the rinsed split peas, smoked ham hocks, leek, onion, garlic, turmeric, carrot, celery, chili powder, vegetable stock, and 2 liters of water. Stir to blend everything well.
Step 3: Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
Step 4: Once cooked, carefully extract the ham hocks from the soup and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
Step 5: After they’ve cooled slightly, pull the meat from the bones into bite-sized pieces and return the shredded ham to the soup. Stir in the lemon juice.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the kale with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Step 7: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and crown each serving with the crunchy kale chips.

Pro Tips for the Best Split Pea Smoked Ham

Keep these in mind:

For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of smoked ham and a ham bone.
Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the dish’s flavor significantly.
Adjust the thickness by adding more or less stock depending on your preference.
This recipe is perfect for cooking split peas with smoked ham in a slow cooker, making it a hassle-free option.

Best Ways to Serve Split Pea Smoked Ham

Here are some great serving ideas:

Serve with freshly baked bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Top with crispy croutons for added texture.

How to Store and Reheat Split Pea Smoked Ham

To store, place the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also meal prep this easy split pea soup with smoked ham and freeze portions for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Smoked Ham

What’s the secret to perfect Split Pea Smoked Ham?

The secret lies in selecting the best smoked ham for split pea soup, ensuring it adds depth to the flavor profile. Using fresh ingredients and allowing the soup to simmer helps develop the perfect consistency and taste.

Can I make Split Pea Smoked Ham ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Split Pea Smoked Ham?

To avoid mushy peas, ensure you don’t overcook them. Also, use enough liquid to prevent the soup from thickening too much, and always taste for seasoning before serving.

Variations of Split Pea Smoked Ham You Can Try

Here are some variations to spice things up:

Replace the smoked ham with diced turkey for a lighter version.
Add different vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for a unique twist.
Incorporate spices like cumin or smoked paprika for an additional flavor boost.
Make it a vegetarian dish by using vegetable stock and omitting the ham.

Split Pea Smoked Ham: 7 Comforting Secrets for Soup Lovers - Split Pea Smoked Ham - main visual representation

For more tips on cooking, check out our article on saying good and how to enhance your meals.

Split Pea Smoked Ham: 7 Comforting Secrets for Soup Lovers - Split Pea Smoked Ham - additional detail

For additional insights, visit our page on cooking techniques and explore more about meal prep ideas.

Lastly, if you’re looking for more information on the health benefits of split peas, check out this Healthline article.