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Gonna tell you about my grandma's pea soup that's been keeping our family warm for ages! I watched her whip this up so many times before I finally got it right. There's something magical when those split peas, smoky ham bits and fresh veggies come together in one hearty bowl. The first time I nailed her exact recipe, my dad couldn't stop talking about how it brought back childhood memories!
What Makes This Soup Stand Out
This isn't your run-of-the-mill pea soup! The magic happens as those split peas slowly melt down, making everything naturally thick without adding any dairy. I made this for my sick neighbor last week and she told me it worked better than her medicine. My veggie-avoiding kiddos always want more of this green goodness!
Ingredients List
- The Stars:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Fragrant thyme
- Sea salt and pepper
- Fresh bay leaves
- A meaty ham bone
- Dried split peas
- The Base:
- Plain water
- Rich chicken broth
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Sweet carrots
- Crisp celery stalks
- Fresh yellow onion
- Good quality olive oil
Cooking Steps
- The Final Touch
- Pull that tender ham off the bone and mix it back into your soup. Then tweak your seasonings until everything tastes just right. I love this part when my grandma's old favorite comes alive in my kitchen!
- Creating The Base
- Throw in those split peas, broth and that gold-mine ham bone. When it all starts bubbling together, it's like you're conducting a tasty symphony! Watching those peas break down into creamy goodness is pure kitchen wonder.
- Building Our Foundation
- Start by cooking those flavor-packed veggies in olive oil until soft and smelling amazing. The scent fills the whole house! My kids always wander into the kitchen asking what smells so good.
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Tips For Success
Wanna know my tricks for outstanding pea soup? Never rush the veggie sautéing step, they need that time to get flavorful. Watch your liquid as it cooks and add more if it gets too thick. And my top tip? Save that leftover holiday ham bone in the freezer, it'll make your soup taste amazing!
How To Serve
You've gotta have crunchy bread with this soup for dipping! I always use deep bowls and top with fresh parsley. When friends come for lunch, I make twice as much because everyone wants leftovers. Sometimes I'll throw together some grilled cheese sandwiches too, they're perfect on cold days!
Storing Your Soup
This soup tastes even better tomorrow! After sitting in the fridge overnight, it thickens up and the flavors really come together. I often cook a huge pot on Sundays so we can eat it all week long. Just pour in a bit more broth when you warm it up to thin it out.
Try These Variations
Feel free to make this soup your own way! I sometimes throw in diced potatoes for extra heartiness. When my vegetarian friends visit, I skip the ham and use smoked paprika instead for that smoky taste. I once tossed in fresh dill at the end and wow, it changed everything! That's what makes cooking fun, finding what you love best.
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The Family Connection
This soup means more than just food in our home, it links us to our family roots! There's something truly special about cooking the same meal that's fed generations before us. My kids help chop veggies and see how simple ingredients turn into something amazing.
The real joy isn't just how tasty it is, it's seeing everyone smile after their first spoonful! Whether you're making it for someone who needs cheering up or just want something warm and filling, this always hits the spot. And seeing the looks on faces when they try our family recipe? That's what makes time in the kitchen so worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why is my soup too watery?
Let it simmer without a lid for the last half hour. It thickens while cooling, or add water if it’s already thickened too much.
- → Is it possible without ham?
Definitely, but ham gives it great taste. Use veggie stock and toss in smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- → Should I soak split peas first?
Not at all. A quick rinse and sorting are all that’s needed since split peas cook quicker than most legumes.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep it in the fridge for 4-5 days. It will get thicker as it chills. Add water when reheating to adjust the texture.
- → Can it go in the freezer?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Let it cool fully first and leave space in the container for expansion.
Conclusion
Warm yourself with this hearty ham and split pea soup. Easy to cook, loaded with nutrients, and adaptable for different styles.