This recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful ham and split pea soup, perfectly suited for a chilly evening or a relaxed weekend. Made in a slow cooker, it requires minimal hands-on time, allowing the rich flavors to develop slowly and beautifully. This isn't just any ham and split pea soup; it's a culinary experience designed to warm your soul and impress your guests.
What Makes This Crock Pot Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe emphasizes simplicity and flavor. We've focused on maximizing the inherent deliciousness of ham and split peas without relying on excessive ingredients or complicated techniques. The slow cooking process in a crock pot ensures the peas become incredibly tender, and the ham contributes a deep, savory depth to the broth. This method allows the flavors to meld harmoniously, creating a truly unforgettable soup.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb split peas, green or yellow (rinsed)
- 1 lb ham bone (or about 2 cups chopped cooked ham)
- 8 cups ham broth (or chicken broth for a lighter option)
- 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 pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf, removed before serving
Instructions for Crock Pot Perfection:
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Combine Ingredients: Place the rinsed split peas, ham bone (or chopped ham), ham broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf (if using) into your slow cooker.
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Slow Cook: 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 to your liking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Remove Ham Bone (If Used): If using a ham bone, remove it carefully from the soup before serving. Shred any remaining meat from the bone and stir it back into the soup.
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Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions related to making ham and split pea soup in a slow cooker.
Can I use leftover ham instead of a ham bone?
Absolutely! Two cups of chopped cooked ham work perfectly as a substitute for the ham bone. The ham bone primarily contributes flavor and richness to the broth, so using leftover ham will still deliver a delicious result.
How can I thicken my ham and split pea soup?
If your soup is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it in a few ways. You can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can mash some of the cooked split peas against the side of the pot to release their starch.
What other vegetables can I add to this soup?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Potatoes, diced turnips, or even some leafy greens like spinach added during the last 30 minutes would be delicious additions.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer. It should last for up to 3 months.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe typically makes about 6-8 servings, depending on the serving size.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Ham and Split Pea Soup:
- Rinse your split peas: This helps remove any debris and prevents the soup from becoming too cloudy.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked split peas can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm peas.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preference.
- Garnish: Before serving, consider a simple garnish such as a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
This Crock Pot Ham and Split Pea Soup recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and slow cooking. It’s a recipe designed to be both delicious and effortless, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy!
