Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture a steaming bowl filled with vibrant green peas, tender chunks of ham, and sweet potatoes that melt in your mouth like a cozy blanket. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, blending earthy notes with a hint of sweetness, making your taste buds dance with anticipation.

This soup has been a staple in my home for years, especially during family gatherings where laughter fills the air. I remember one Thanksgiving when my uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” and trust me, he does not hand out compliments lightly. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re just feeling nostalgic for something hearty and comforting.

This recipe has brought smiles to our dinner table and has even made its way into friends’ homes as they request the recipe like it’s some ancient family secret.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Split Peas: Look for bright green or yellow split peas; they should be dry and free of debris.

• Ham Hock: A smoked ham hock adds depth; feel free to use leftover ham if you have it!

• Sweet Potatoes: Choose medium-sized ones for sweetness; they add a lovely color to the soup.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring natural sweetness; chop them evenly for consistent cooking.

• Onion: A robust onion provides flavor; yellow onions work best here.

• Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves; their aroma enhances every spoonful of this soup.

• Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness; homemade is even better!

• Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs infuse an aromatic note; dried thyme can work if that’s what you have.

• Bay Leaf: Don’t forget this flavor booster; remove it before serving!

• Pepper and Salt: Season according to taste, but remember, ham adds saltiness too.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes

First things first: gather your ingredients and get ready to create some magic in the kitchen.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in diced onions, carrots, and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent—about 5 minutes.

Add the Split Peas and Ham Hock: Stir in rinsed split peas along with your ham hock. The split peas should glisten invitingly as they mingle with those aromatic veggies.

Pour in the Broth and Herbs: Pour in vegetable broth until everything is submerged—about 6 cups should do it. Toss in thyme sprigs and bay leaf for an aromatic boost.

Simmer Away!: Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 45 minutes until the peas are tender—the magic will start happening!

Add Sweet Potatoes Last: Stir in diced sweet potatoes after 30 minutes of simmering. They’ll cook perfectly without turning mushy—just soft enough for that delightful texture contrast.

Season to Perfection!: Taste your masterpiece before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed while letting that delicious aroma envelop you completely.

Now you have a bubbling pot of goodness! Serve it hot with crusty bread or crunchy croutons on top—because who doesn’t love some crunch?

Enjoy this delightful creation that combines rich flavors into every bite! Each spoonful brings warmth like a hug from grandma—comfort food at its finest!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions until they’re golden, then add garlic and diced ham for flavor. Cook the sweet potatoes separately until tender. Finally, combine everything with split peas and broth, simmering until creamy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different veggies like carrots or celery based on what’s in your fridge. You can also add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a delightful twist on flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Sharing my first attempt at this soup reminds me of my mom’s cozy kitchen during winter evenings when her soups were nothing short of magic; I still chase that warmth.

FAQ

What type of ham is best for Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes?

For this recipe, use a smoked ham hock or leftover ham from a holiday meal. These options lend deep flavor to your soup as they cook down, infusing every bite with savory goodness. If you’re opting for a vegetarian version, consider using a smoked salt or liquid smoke to replicate that traditional taste without meat.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! To make a vegan version of Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes, simply omit the ham entirely and replace it with vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You might also want to amp up the umami by adding mushrooms or nutritional yeast while keeping the sweet potatoes for their creamy texture.

How can I thicken my soup if it’s too watery?

If your soup turns out thinner than expected, don’t fret! Simply mash some of the peas against the side of the pot while stirring or blend a portion of it until smooth using an immersion blender. This will give you that delightful creamy texture without losing any deliciousness.

Can I freeze Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes?

Yes! This soup freezes beautifully; just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored frozen for up to three months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat for best quality.

Conclusion for Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes

Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes is not just another bowl of comfort—it’s an experience bursting with flavor! By perfecting your cooking process, adding personal touches, and following storage tips, you can enjoy this dish at its finest anytime you wish. So gather those ingredients, embrace your inner chef, and prepare to impress yourself (and others) one warm bowl at a time!

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Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves about 6

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Description

Split Pea Soup with Ham and Sweet Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days. This hearty soup combines tender split peas, smoky ham, and sweet potatoes to create a warm, nourishing bowl that evokes nostalgia and warmth. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup split peas (dry)
• 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 pound)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes (diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in rinsed split peas and the ham hock until well combined.
3. Pour in vegetable broth until ingredients are submerged. Add thyme and bay leaf.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 45 minutes.
5. After 30 minutes of simmering, add diced sweet potatoes; continue cooking until all ingredients are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot with crusty bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 20mg