Hearty Pea Soup with Ham Slow Cooker Recipe for Busy Parents
Introduction
Hey there lovely parents! Are you looking for a way to whip up a nourishing meal for your family without having to spend hours in the kitchen? Well, guess what? You’ve struck gold with this incredibly easy and mouth-watering Pea Soup with Ham slow cooker recipe. Not only is it a cinch to prepare, but it’s also super comforting and perfect for those hectic days. Let’s get into the delicious details, shall we?
Why Pea Soup with Ham is a Win for Busy Families
The merits of pea soup are often unsung, but let me sing them loud and proud for you! It’s loaded with protein thanks to the ham and peas, giving your family the energy they need to get through the day. Even better, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies for the little ones who might not be the biggest fans of the green stuff. Fiber? Check. Vitamins? Check. Full tummies and happy faces? Double-check!
What You’ll Need
- Split peas: The star of the show. These little gems are not only nutritious but they also break down beautifully over time, giving the soup a creamy texture without adding any cream!
- Ham: A great way to use up that leftover ham! Whether it’s from a Sunday roast or the holiday dinner, it’ll add a wonderful smokiness to the soup.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions form the classic mirepoix, which is a fancy French way of saying they bring flavor to the party!
- Herbs and spices: Thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper are all you really need to take this from good to great.
- Liquid: A mix of chicken or vegetable broth and water provides the perfect base for your soup.
Step-by-Step: The Easiest Pea Soup with Ham Ever!
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is so easy it’s almost funny. You’ll feel like you’re cheating at the whole parenting and life thing. But don’t worry, it’s our little secret.
Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, you’ll want to round up all the ingredients from the list above. Measure, chop, and have them ready to go right into your slow cooker. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, so don’t stress about exact measurements and feel free to adjust to your family’s taste.
Layer it Up
Into your slow cooker goes the mirepoix mix of chopped onions, carrots, and celery. On top of those, layer the split peas, and then nestle in your chunks of ham. If you have a ham bone, even better! It’s like a magic wand that you wave over the soup to add depth and richness.
Pour and Set
Mix your chosen broth with water, then pour it over the layers in the slow cooker. Toss in your herbs, give it a loving stir, and set your slow cooker to low. Now, here’s the magical part – walk away. Settle it in for a good 8 hours, and your work here is done. Use this time to be the superhero parent you are, and let the slow cooker do its thing.
Finishing Touches
Once the cooking time is up, all that’s left to do is to fish out the ham bone (if you used one) and bay leaves. Give the soup a good stir and – this part is optional but recommended for that ‘wow’ factor – use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup directly in the cooker. You want to keep some chunks for texture, so don’t go too crazy with the blending. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and voilà!
We’re just getting started here. Coming up next, we’re going to delve even deeper into this pea soup extravaganza. Prepare yourself for handy tips, variations for picky eaters, and answers to all those burning questions you might have about storage, serving suggestions, and so much more. So stay tuned, because this guide to the ultimate Pea Soup with Ham is about to get even more scrumptious. Now go set that slow cooker—your future self will thank you!
5 Things Parents Should Know When Preparing Pea Soup with Ham in a Slow Cooker
1. Timing is Flexible
One of the biggest perks of using a slow cooker is the flexibility it offers. Though this recipe suggests cooking on low for about 8 hours, you can adjust the time based on your schedule. Running late? Set it to keep warm until you’re ready to serve. Just remember, the longer it cooks, the softer the peas and veggies will become.
2. Pre-Soaking Isn’t Necessary But Can Be Helpful
Unlike some legume-based dishes, pre-soaking the split peas isn’t a must. However, if you find the moment and remember to rinse and soak them beforehand, you’ll reduce the cooking time a bit and might even make them easier to digest. A little planning can make this soup even more convenient!
3. It’s a Leftover Hero
This Pea Soup with Ham is an excellent way to use the leftover ham from previous meals, but it doesn’t stop there. If you have other veggies lying around that need to be used up, toss them in! This soup is forgiving and versatile; think of it as your canvas for culinary creativity and frugality. Plus, it’s a nifty lesson in reducing food waste for the kiddos!
4. Safe Storage & Reheating
Storage is a breeze. Just allow the soup to cool, then store it in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months. Reheating is simple, too. Warm it on the stove or in the microwave; if the soup has thickened, just add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Customization is King (or Queen!)
Maybe your little one doesn’t like celery, or perhaps you’re not a fan of thyme. No problem! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s super customizable to fit your family’s preferences. You can add more vegetables, use different herbs, or even make it vegetarian by skipping the ham and using vegetable broth instead.
Keep these five tips in mind and preparing pea soup with ham in your slow cooker will be not just stress-free but a delightful culinary adventure. Each pot you make can be a reflection of your family’s tastes and your ingenuity in the kitchen. So, grab those ingredients, layer them up in the slow cooker, and let the magic happen while you tend to the million other things on your parental to-do list!
FAQs: The Finer Details of Your Perfect Pea Soup
Can I Make Pea Soup with Ham Vegetarian?
Of course! To make it vegetarian-friendly, skip the ham and use vegetable broth or water. Feel free to add more vegetables to bulk it up, or consider tossing in some diced potatoes for that extra heartiness.
What If I Don’t Have a Ham Bone?
No ham bone? No worries! While the bone adds a rich flavor, you can still achieve a delicious soup without it. Just use diced ham, or forego the meat altogether for a vegetarian version.
Can I Freeze Pea Soup with Ham?
Yes, pea soup freezes wonderfully! Wait until it’s completely cooled, pack it in airtight containers, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, defrost in the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen, adding some liquid to thin if necessary.
What are Some Toppings I Can Add to my Pea Soup?
The sky’s the limit when it comes to toppings. Try croutons, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, fresh herbs, or even a handful of crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor. Encourage your children to choose their toppings to make mealtime fun!
How Can I Make My Pea Soup Creamier?
If you’re looking for a creamier texture, blend a larger portion of the soup, or add a splash of milk or cream after cooking. A potato masher can also help break down the peas and veggies for a creamier consistency without completely pureeing the soup.
There you have it, dear parents: a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and answers to make your pea soup with ham slow cooker experience as smooth as your soon-to-be creamy creation. Get ready for cozy nights and full bellies with this hearty, wholesome, and oh-so-easy-to-make delight. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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