Delight Your Family with a Hearty Bowl of Peas and Ham Soup

Hey there, busy moms and dads! Are you craving a meal that’s both comforting and packed with nutrients? Look no further than the classic peas and ham soup—a tasty traditional dish that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Not only is it a hit with the kiddos, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for those hectic weekdays. Let’s dive into making this family-favorite that will warm your hearts and fill your bellies!

Nutrition in a Bowl: The Benefits of Peas and Ham Soup

When it comes to feeding your family, you want to make sure they’re getting the very best. Peas and ham soup isn’t just tasty; it’s brimming with good-for-you ingredients. Green peas are a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K, plus they offer fiber and protein to keep energy levels stable. The ham adds a savory flavor profile and supplies essential minerals such as iron and potassium, making this soup a nutritious powerhouse. Combining both gives you a balanced meal that supports a healthy diet!

A Time-Saving Classic: Cooking Tips for Busy Parents

Between juggling work, helping with homework, and running to various after-school activities, finding time to cook can be tough. But this peas and ham soup can be a lifesaver. Here are some quick tips for preparing the meal even on your busiest days:

• Prep in Advance: Chop your vegetables and ham during any free moments, even the night before, to save precious minutes during dinner rush.
• Embrace Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, and the soup itself tastes even better the next day!
• Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: If you have an Instant Pot, use it to make your soup in record time without sacrificing flavor.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully—cook a larger batch and save portions for nights when cooking is the last thing on your mind.

The Ultimate Peas and Ham Soup Recipe

Ready to get started? Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for peas and ham soup that you can whip up in no time. Let’s get those pots ready and begin cooking a meal that will have everyone rushing to the table!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 sticks of celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in the split peas, chicken or vegetable stock, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat, letting it simmer, covered, for about 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
4. Add the diced ham to the pot and continue to simmer until the ham is heated through.
5. Remove the bay leaves, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

As the peas soften and meld with the ham and vegetables, your soup will transform into a comforting, creamy delight without even the need for a blender. It’s that easy! And while that soup simmers, you can unwind or catch up on other tasks, confident in knowing that a nutritious meal is on its way.

Speaking of more tips, let’s not forget about add-ins and substitutions that can cater to any dietary preferences or simply to mix things up. We’ll be exploring all that and more as we continue our journey into making the perfect peas and ham soup. So, grab your apron, and let’s make dinnertime effortless and yummy!

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5 Things Parents Should Know When Preparing Peas and Ham Soup

1. The Power of Legumes

Legumes, like the peas in this recipe, are not just great for health; they’re also economical and have a long shelf life. Dried peas can be stored in your pantry, so you’ll always have the base for a hearty soup on hand. Rich in protein and fiber, they ensure your little ones feel full and satisfied.

2. Quick Soaking Peas

If you forget to soak your peas overnight, don’t fret! You can do a quick soak by boiling them in water for 2 minutes and then let them stand for 1 hour before cooking. This is a convenient tip for any parent who needs to throw together a last-minute nutritious dinner.

3. Ham Selection Matters

Choosing the right ham can make a difference in your soup’s flavor and nutrition. A piece of leftover ham from dinner is perfect, or you can buy a ham hock for a richer broth. For a healthier option, look for lower sodium and nitrate-free hams at your grocery store.

4. Vegetable Variations

Feel free to mix and match your veggies based on what your kids like or what you have in your fridge. Adding potatoes can make the soup even heartier, and throwing in some spinach can increase the iron content. This recipe is all about flexibility and catering to your family’s tastes!

5. Emphasizing Education and Experimentation

Cooking with your children can be a great learning experience. Use this soup recipe as an opportunity to teach them about where food comes from or how it helps their body grow. Encouraging kids to add their choice of seasoning or toppings can make them more excited to eat their creation.

Add-ins and Substitutions for Peas and Ham Soup

No two pots of peas and ham soup need to be the same. Whether someone in your family has a dietary restriction or you simply want to switch things up, there are plenty of modifications you can make to ensure everyone can enjoy this comforting bowl of soup.

Potential Add-ins:

• Roughly chopped spinach or kale for a pop of color and an extra dose of nutrition
• Diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for added texture and heartiness
• A splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy twist
• Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright flavor just before serving

Substitutions:

• For a vegetarian version, skip the ham and add more legumes or some mushrooms for a meaty texture
• Swap chicken stock for vegetable stock to keep it plant-based
• Gluten-free? Ensure your stock is certified gluten-free
• If split peas aren’t a favorite, try using lentils instead

Remember that cooking should be enjoyable and stress-free. Our recipe for peas and ham soup is designed to be straightforward, flexible, and fun for the whole family. With this classic dish, you’ll dish out smiles, nourish bodies, and maybe even create some new family traditions around your dining table. Now, ready those ladles – a sumptuous bowl of peas and ham soup awaits!

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