Slow Cooker Pea & Ham Soup Recipe

Slow Cooker Pea & Ham Soup is a comforting and hearty classic that’s perfect for cold days or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal. This simple, budget-friendly soup is made with split peas, tender ham, and aromatic vegetables, all cooked low and slow for hours to create a creamy and rich texture. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare—just add all the ingredients and let the magic happen. Serve it with crusty bread for a delicious meal that’s sure to warm your soul.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Pea & Ham Soup
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 ham bone or 2 cups cooked, diced ham
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Ensure all vegetables are chopped and ready to go.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, add the rinsed split peas, ham bone or diced ham, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the peas are soft and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally, if possible.
4. Remove the Ham Bone: If using a ham bone, remove it from the slow cooker, shred any remaining meat, and return the meat to the soup. Discard the bone.
5. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy with crusty bread or rolls.

Tips for Perfect Pea & Ham Soup

• Rinse the Peas: Rinsing the split peas is important to remove any dust or small debris that may be present.
• Use a Ham Bone: If you have a ham bone, it adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup. However, diced ham works just as well for a simpler version.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add diced potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness. You can also stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach towards the end of cooking for added color and nutrients.
• Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of ham.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze pea and ham soup?
A: Yes! This soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover pea and ham soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I use green split peas instead of yellow?
A: Absolutely! Green and yellow split peas are interchangeable in this recipe. The flavor is similar, though green split peas may have a slightly earthier taste.

Slow Cooker Pea & Ham Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for chilly days. With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of soup that’s rich in flavor. This classic recipe is a great way to use leftover ham and makes a wonderful, satisfying meal for the whole family. Pair it with crusty bread, and you have a simple yet nourishing dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.