Slow Cooker Pea & Ham Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s easy to prepare and full of flavor, thanks to the combination of split peas, ham, and vegetables. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed: Provides the base of the soup, giving it a rich, creamy texture as they break down during cooking.
- 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced ham: Adds a savory, smoky flavor to the soup, and the bone can help thicken the soup as it cooks.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a mild, sweet flavor and depth to the soup.
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped: Brings a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.
- 3 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor and crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the flavor with a bit of pungency.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses the soup with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a hint of earthiness that complements the ham and vegetables.
- 6 cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful liquid base for the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the soup to your liking.
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by rinsing the dried split peas under cold water to remove any debris. This step is important to ensure the soup is clean and smooth.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- In a large slow cooker, add the rinsed split peas as the base layer. Next, place the meaty ham bone or diced ham on top of the peas. Follow with the chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, bay leaf, and dried thyme.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring that everything is submerged. The liquid should just cover the ingredients, allowing them to cook evenly.
- Cook the Soup:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours. The cooking time allows the peas to break down and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Check the Consistency:
- After the cooking time is up, check the consistency of the soup. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Remove the Ham Bone:
- If you used a ham bone, carefully remove it from the soup. The meat should be falling off the bone at this point. Shred any remaining meat and return it to the soup, discarding the bone.
- Season to Taste:
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Be cautious with the salt, as the ham and broth can already be quite salty.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. This adds a fresh, vibrant color and a touch of herbaceous flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve this hearty soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm roll on the side. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich flavors of the soup.
- As a Main Course: This soup is filling enough to be served as a main course. Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use a Meaty Ham Bone: If possible, use a ham bone with plenty of meat on it. This will not only enhance the flavor of the soup but also provide tender chunks of ham throughout.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing portions for later.
- Blending Option: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend some or all of the soup before serving. This will give you a creamier texture.
Slow Cooker Pea & Ham Soup is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a rich, satisfying soup that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a hearty starter, this soup is bound to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy!
