Warm up with a hearty bowl of split pea soup made with savory ham hock. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in and easy to make!

Looking for a hearty and comforting soup that's perfect for chilly evenings? Look no further than the Split Pea Soup Recipe With Ham Hock! This classic soup is packed with flavor and texture, and it's easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. With its rich and smoky flavor, this soup is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Plus, it's loaded with healthy veggies and protein-rich ham hock, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal that will keep you full and satisfied for hours.

Introduction: A Hearty Soup for any Occasion

There's nothing quite as satisfying as a bowl of warm, hearty soup on a chilly day. One classic soup that never fails to hit the spot is split pea soup with ham hock. This savory dish is packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients that are sure to leave you feeling full and satisfied. Whether you're enjoying it as a main course or a side, split pea soup with ham hock is a perfect addition to any meal. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make the best split pea soup with ham hock that will have your taste buds singing.

Ingredients: What you Need to Make the Perfect Split Pea Soup

To make split pea soup with ham hock, you'll need a few key ingredients:- 1 pound dried split peas- 1 smoked ham hock- 1 onion, chopped- 2 carrots, chopped- 2 celery stalks, chopped- 4 cups chicken broth- 2 cups water- 1 bay leaf- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Ham Hock: Tips and Tricks for the Juiciest Meat

Before you begin cooking your split pea soup, it's important to properly prepare your ham hock. This will ensure that the meat is juicy and tender when added to the soup. First, rinse the ham hock under running water to remove any excess salt or debris. Next, place the ham hock in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the ham hock simmer for 30 minutes, then drain off the water and set the ham hock aside.

Cooking the Split Peas: How to Soften Peas to Give your Soup an Amazing Texture

Once you've prepared your ham hock, it's time to cook the split peas. Start by rinsing the dried split peas under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, add the split peas to a large pot along with the chicken broth, water, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the split peas cook for 30-40 minutes, or until they are soft and tender. Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent the split peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Sauteing the Vegetables: Why This Step is Critical for Flavor

While the split peas are cooking, it's time to saute the vegetables. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Saute the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and fragrant. This step is critical for adding depth of flavor to your split pea soup. Sauteing the vegetables helps to bring out their natural sweetness and caramelization, which will enhance the overall taste of the soup.

Combining the Ingredients: How to Bring It All Together

Once the split peas are cooked and the vegetables are sauteed, it's time to combine all the ingredients. Start by removing the bay leaf from the pot of split peas. Then, add the sauteed vegetables and ham hock to the pot. Use a spoon to mix all the ingredients together, making sure that the ham hock is fully submerged in the liquid. Add salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer for another 30-40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Simmering the Soup: Why Patience is Key for a Rich and Creamy Soup

One of the keys to making the best split pea soup with ham hock is to simmer the soup slowly and patiently. This will allow the flavors to fully develop and combine, resulting in a rich and creamy soup that is bursting with flavor.Be sure to keep the heat at a low simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot. After 30-40 minutes, remove the ham hock from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once it's cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bone and shred it into small pieces. Return the shredded meat to the pot and give the soup a final stir. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness and consistency.

Serving Suggestions: Pairing Your Split Pea Soup with the Perfect Sides

Split pea soup with ham hock is a hearty and filling dish that can stand on its own as a main course. However, if you want to add some extra flavor and texture to your meal, there are plenty of sides that pair well with this soup.Some popular options include crusty bread, crackers, or a simple side salad. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to give your soup an extra burst of flavor.

Freezing and Storing: How to Keep Your Soup Fresh for Days to Come

If you have leftovers, split pea soup with ham hock can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. The soup will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips and Tricks for Making The Best Split Pea Soup with Ham Hock

- Be sure to properly prepare your ham hock before adding it to the soup. This will ensure that the meat is juicy and tender.- Sauteing the vegetables before adding them to the soup will help to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.- Simmer the soup slowly and patiently to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together.- Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning as needed. Taste the soup frequently and add salt and pepper as desired.- Serve the soup with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple side salad for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Have you ever tried Split Pea Soup Recipe With Ham Hock? If not, you're missing out on one of the most delicious and satisfying soups out there. This recipe is perfect for a chilly day, when all you want is something warm and comforting to eat. Let me tell you a story about how I discovered this recipe and why it's now one of my favorites.

It all started when I was visiting my grandmother. She's an amazing cook and always has something delicious simmering on the stove. One day, I walked into her kitchen and was hit with the most amazing aroma. It was a rich, savory smell that made my mouth water. What's cooking, Grandma? I asked.

Split Pea Soup Recipe With Ham Hock, she replied, stirring a pot on the stove. It's one of my favorites.

I'd never heard of it before, but after she served me a bowl, I was in love. The soup was thick and creamy, with chunks of tender ham hock and bits of carrot and celery. I begged her for the recipe, and she shared it with me.

Now, whenever I make Split Pea Soup Recipe With Ham Hock, I feel like I'm back in my grandmother's kitchen. Here's how you can make it too:

Ingredients:

1 pound green split peas
1 ham hock (or 2 if you want extra meat)
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
2 teaspoons dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Rinse the split peas under cold water and remove any debris.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Add the split peas, ham hock, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The soup should be thick and creamy.
Remove the ham hock from the soup and shred the meat. Discard the bone and any fat.
Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side.

This Split Pea Soup Recipe With Ham Hock is a true comfort food. It's hearty, filling, and perfect for a cozy night in. The ham hock adds a smoky flavor and richness to the soup, while the vegetables provide some freshness and texture. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do!

Thank you for taking the time to read about my Split Pea Soup recipe with Ham Hock. I hope that you found this article informative and helpful in your cooking endeavors. As someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I can tell you that this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a warm and hearty bowl of soup on a chilly evening.

If you decide to make this recipe, I recommend taking your time with it. Letting the ham hock simmer for several hours will give the soup a rich and flavorful base that you won't be able to get enough of. The addition of carrots, onions, and celery adds a nice touch of sweetness and crunch to the dish. And the best part? This soup freezes well, so you can enjoy it for days to come.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Split Pea Soup recipe with Ham Hock is sure to impress. So grab your apron, turn on some music, and get cooking! I can guarantee that your taste buds will thank you.

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People Also Ask About Split Pea Soup Recipe With Ham Hock:

What is a ham hock?

A ham hock is the joint between the foot and the leg of a pig.

What kind of peas are used in split pea soup?

Split pea soup is made with dried green or yellow split peas. Green split peas are the most common variety used for this soup.

How do you make split pea soup with ham hock?

To make split pea soup with ham hock, first you need to simmer the ham hock in water until it's tender. Then, remove the ham hock from the pot and use the remaining liquid to cook the split peas. Once the peas are soft, add the chopped ham hock meat back into the pot, along with any vegetables and seasonings you'd like to include. Simmer until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham hock?

Yes, you can use other types of pork such as bacon, smoked sausage, or even leftover ham. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the soup will be different depending on the meat you use.

What vegetables can I add to split pea soup?

Common vegetables used in split pea soup include onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes. You can also add greens such as kale or spinach for added nutrition.

Is split pea soup healthy?

Yes, split pea soup is a healthy and nutritious meal. Split peas are high in fiber and protein, and the soup is low in fat and calories. Plus, adding vegetables to the soup increases its nutrient density.

Overall, split pea soup with ham hock is a delicious and satisfying meal that's easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a hearty soup that's perfect for any occasion.