Are you craving a warm, hearty, and incredibly flavorful soup that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This slow cooker ham and split pea soup recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. It's packed with protein, fiber, and delicious ham flavor, all simmered to perfection in your trusty crock pot. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort food, made easy with this homemade cooking recipe. This quick dinner idea is perfect for healthy meals and is one of the best recipes you'll find for a satisfying and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound split peas, dried (green or yellow)
- 1 pound ham bone (or 1 cup chopped cooked ham)
- 8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Rinse the split peas: Before getting started, rinse the dried split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any debris and prevents the soup from becoming too cloudy.
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Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Place the rinsed split peas, ham bone (or chopped ham), water (or broth), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and rosemary in your slow cooker. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Remove the ham bone (if using): Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the ham bone from the slow cooker. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone and add it back to the soup.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ham and Split Pea Soup:
- Soaking the split peas (optional): For even quicker cooking, you can soak the split peas in cold water for at least 1 hour, or overnight. This will significantly reduce the cooking time.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked split peas can become mushy. Cook until they are tender but still hold their shape.
- Use a ham hock: For a richer, more flavorful soup, use a ham hock instead of a ham bone.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as potatoes, turnips, or parsnips.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham and Split Pea Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Ham and Split Pea Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking for a creamier texture.
- Vegetarian Ham and Split Pea Soup: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a tablespoon of smoked paprika for a smoky ham-like flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This easy recipe for ham and split pea soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic dish, made effortlessly in your slow cooker!