What makes slow cooker split pea & ham soup perfect for a cold day? It’s the easy prep, the mix of flavors, and its health benefits. This soup is a great choice for anyone wanting a tasty, simple meal. It only takes 5 minutes to prepare and cooks for 4 hours, making it ideal for busy days.
Introduction to Slow Cooker Split Pea & Ham Soup
Slow cooker split pea & ham soup is a classic comfort food. It’s easy to make and great for any season. Its creamy texture and mix of split peas, ham, and veggies make it a favorite. It’s a quick, healthy meal option.
Key Takeaways
- You can prepare a delicious slow cooker split pea & ham soup with minimal effort.
- This homemade split pea soup recipe is perfect for busy days, with a prep time of just 5 minutes.
- Slow cooker split pea & ham soup is a comfort food classic that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of the year.
- This soup is a healthy, nutritious option, with a single serving containing approximately 295 kcal and 20g of fiber.
- You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Slow cooker split pea & ham soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
Understanding the Classic Appeal of Split Pea & Ham Soup
When you dive into comfort food, you’ll find the classic split pea and ham soup. It’s a dish loved for centuries. Its simplicity, health benefits, and warmth make it a favorite for cozy nights.
The history of split pea soup goes back to ancient times. It’s found in many cultures worldwide. This soup is loved for its easy ingredients and long-lasting appeal.
Some key benefits of this soup include:
- It’s high in protein and fiber, making it nutritious and filling.
- It’s low in calories and fat, great for a healthy meal.
- It’s rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, and potassium.
Adding this soup to your meals can boost your health. It helps lower cholesterol and provides vital nutrients. Its history, simplicity, and health benefits make it a beloved dish.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Results
To make delicious slow cooker split pea and ham soup, you’ll need the right cooking equipment. A slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is the most essential piece of kitchen essentials for this recipe. With a slow cooker, you can cook your soup over a long period without constant monitoring, making it easy to prepare and cook.
When choosing a slow cooker, consider the size of the recipe you’re making. For this split pea and ham soup, a 5.5L (6 Quart) slow cooker is recommended. This size allows for the right amount of liquid and ingredients to cook evenly. Other necessary equipment includes a cutting board, knife, and measuring cups.
In addition to a slow cooker, you’ll need some basic kitchen essentials like a can opener, wooden spoon, and ladle. These tools will help you prepare and serve your soup with ease. By having the right equipment, you’ll be able to focus on the cooking process and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal.
Some popular slow cooker brands include Cuisinart, Hamilton Beach, and Black+Decker. When selecting a slow cooker, consider the features that are important to you, such as programmable timers, temperature control, and ease of cleaning. By investing in a good quality slow cooker and using it with other essential kitchen equipment, you’ll be able to make a variety of delicious meals, including this tasty split pea and ham soup.
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Split Pea & Ham Soup
To make a delicious slow cooker split pea and ham soup, you need the right ingredients. You’ll need split peas, ham, and other ingredients that add flavor and texture. Recipes from SpendWithPennies and Emily Bites show that using quality ingredients is key.
Split peas come in green or yellow, each with its own taste and health benefits. You can use a meaty ham bone or leftover ham for flavor. Essential ingredients include diced celery, carrots, onion, and garlic for flavor and aroma.
Here is a list of the main ingredients you will need:
- 1 pound of split peas
- 2 cups of diced ham or 1 ham hock
- 1 quart of chicken stock
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of diced celery
- 2 cups of diced carrots
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons of kosher salt
With these ingredients, you can make a hearty slow cooker split pea and ham soup. It’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. The soup is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious meal.
Follow this easy recipe and use the right ingredients for a delicious meal. This soup is great for any occasion, whether you need a quick lunch or a hearty dinner.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Split Peas | 1 pound |
| Diced Ham | 2 cups |
| Chicken Stock | 1 quart |
| Water | 2 cups |
Preparing Your Ingredients
To begin your slow cooker split pea and ham soup, start by preparing your ingredients. Rinse 1 (16-ounce) package of dried split peas. This is a key step in ingredient preparation. Next, dice 3 medium carrots, 1/2 cup coarsely chopped onion, and 2 stalks of celery.
Also, mince 2 cloves of garlic and chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley or use 2 teaspoons of dried parsley flakes.
Remember, split peas cook well without soaking, unlike dry beans. But, soaking them for at least four hours or overnight can shorten cooking time. For this recipe, you’ll need 6 cups of hot water or broth, a common need in many slow cooker recipes.
Here’s a summary of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 (16-ounce) package of dried split peas
- 3 medium carrots
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped onion
- 2 stalks of celery
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons of dried parsley flakes
- 1 large bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of seasoned salt
- 6 cups of hot water or broth
By following these cooking tips and preparing your ingredients correctly, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious slow cooker split pea and ham soup. Always use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your slow cooker recipes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To start cooking your slow cooker split pea and ham soup, prepare all the ingredients first. You’ll need 16 oz of dried green split peas, 3 garlic cloves, and 1 cup of chopped onion. Also, 1 cup of chopped celery, 1 cup of chopped peeled carrots, 16 oz of cooked ham, 4 cups of lower sodium chicken broth, and 2 cups of water are required. With these ingredients, you can easily make a tasty and healthy meal.
Slow cooker recipes work best when ingredients cook slowly over time. For this recipe, cook the soup on low for 8 hours. This ensures the split peas are tender and the flavors blend well. Cooking with a slow cooker is all about patience and letting it do the work.
Initial Setup
The initial setup is easy. Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, stir, and cover it. Make sure it’s on low heat and cook for 8 hours.
Cooking Process
Let the slow cooker handle the cooking. The soup will thicken as it cools. You can also adjust the seasoning to taste. Slow cooker recipes usually take 6 to 8 hours, so you can plan ahead and enjoy a ready-to-eat meal.
Timing Guidelines
Timing is key for slow cooker recipes. Start cooking the soup 8 hours before you want to eat it. This way, it will be perfectly cooked and ready when you are. By following these steps and timing, you’ll have a delicious and easy meal with your slow cooker.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Getting the right soup consistency in slow cooker split pea and ham soup is key. As it cooks, the peas break down, making the soup creamy and hearty. But, the soup’s consistency can change, getting thicker after it cools. To fix this, you can add water or cook it longer.
Many cooking sites, like SpendWithPennies, suggest cooking the soup for 30 minutes to 1 hour to thicken it. This makes the soup more comforting. For a thinner soup, add a bit of water or chicken broth and cook for 15-30 minutes more.
Here are some slow cooker tips for the perfect consistency:
- Use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker for even cooking and to avoid too thick soup.
- Cook the soup on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. This ensures the peas are tender and the soup is thick.
- Stir the soup now and then to stop the peas from sticking to the bottom.
By using these tips and adjusting cooking time and liquid, you can get the perfect soup consistency. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning. Enjoy your delicious and comforting soup.
| Consistency | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Thicker | Cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Thinner | Add a small amount of water or chicken broth and cook for an additional 15-30 minutes |
Seasoning Tips and Flavor Enhancements
Exploring slow cooker split pea and ham soup reveals the power of seasoning tips and flavor enhancements. A few tweaks can turn this classic dish into a rich, satisfying experience. Remember, balance is key when seasoning. Too much salt can overwhelm, while vinegar or citrus can boost flavors.
Culinary surveys show that people often use 3-5 seasonings in a soup. Garlic and onion, used in 75% of recipes, add depth. Try herbs and spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or thyme for a unique taste. For spice, add a jalapeno or soak New Mexico chillies in boiling water for 30 minutes.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors
- Using cracked black peppercorns to add a subtle kick
- Incorporating chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh and herbaceous note
These tips can make your slow cooker split pea and ham soup delicious and satisfying. It’s great for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight meal to a hearty soup for a gathering. This versatile dish is sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When serving your slow cooker split pea and ham soup, think about different serving suggestions. You can pair it with sides like crusty bread, salads, or other dishes. For a full meal, try it with toasted baguette, honey wheat bread, cornbread, or fluffy biscuits.
Some excellent soup pairings include a green salad, roasted veggies, or cornbread. You can also add crusty bread and cheese or charcuterie for a bigger meal. The goal is to match flavors without overwhelming the soup.
Here are some popular pairing options:
- Freshly toasted baguette
- Honey wheat bread with soft whipped butter
- Cornbread
- Fluffy biscuits
The right serving suggestions and soup pairings depend on your taste and the event. With a bit of creativity, your slow cooker soup can become a tasty meal for any time.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
After making your slow cooker split pea and ham soup, it’s key to store it right. This keeps it fresh and tasty. SpendWithPennies and Emily Bites suggest refrigerating leftovers for up to 2 days. When you reheat, add a bit of water because it thickens after cooling.
For longer storage, freezing is a good option. Portion the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags. This makes thawing and reheating easy. Frozen soup can last up to 3 months. Always heat it to 165°F to keep it safe to eat.
- Label and date your containers or bags before freezing
- Reheat soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally
- Add a splash of water or broth if the soup becomes too thick
By following these tips, you can enjoy your soup for longer. It keeps the flavor and nutrients intact.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When making slow cooker split pea and ham soup, you might face some common problems. These issues can affect how good your soup tastes. Some common issues include the soup being too thick or too thin, flavors not mixing well, and other soup problems that can happen while cooking.
To fix these common issues, knowing the causes and how to correct them is key. If your soup is too thick, adding more stock or water can help. If it’s too thin, simmering it longer can reduce the liquid and make the flavors stronger. Troubleshooting these problems takes patience and attention to detail. But with practice, you can make a perfect bowl of slow cooker split pea and ham soup every time.
Here are some tips to help you troubleshoot common issues:
- Check the soup’s consistency often and adjust the cooking time or liquid as needed.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning often to make sure the flavors are balanced and tasty.
- Be patient and don’t rush the cooking process, as this can affect the soup’s texture and flavor.
By following these tips and being aware of common issues, you can make a delicious and satisfying bowl of slow cooker split pea and ham soup. Remember to stay calm and patient when troubleshooting any problems. Don’t hesitate to experiment and try new things to get the perfect flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications
Exploring slow cooker split pea and ham soup can lead to wanting to change the recipe. You can make it fit your dietary needs by trying different variations. For example, you can make a vegetarian version by using a plant-based ham or leaving it out.
Many sources, like Emily Bites and SpendWithPennies, show how to adjust the recipe for different diets. You can make it gluten-free by using special broth and checking the ingredients. These changes let you enjoy a tasty and healthy soup, no matter your dietary limits.
Variations for Different Diets
- Vegetarian: substitute ham with a plant-based alternative or omit it
- Gluten-free: use gluten-free broth and be mindful of ingredients
- Vegan: replace ham with a vegan alternative and use plant-based broth
Trying out these variations lets you make a slow cooker split pea and ham soup that fits your taste and diet. Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or vegan, you can enjoy this comforting soup.
Benefits of Adaptation
Changing the recipe for different diets makes the soup more inclusive. It also lets you try new flavors and ingredients. Adding vegetarian or vegan options can make your diet more interesting and help you find new favorites. Plus, it helps you stay on track with your dietary goals and get the nutrients you need.
| Dietary Modification | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian | Increased variety, reduced saturated fat |
| Gluten-free | Improved digestion, reduced inflammation |
| Vegan | Increased antioxidant intake, reduced environmental impact |
Conclusion
Discovering the joy of making slow cooker split pea soup is truly special. It not only warms the heart but also brings many health benefits from the split peas. This simple yet tasty recipe will make your family and friends love it.
Sharing meals is at the heart of cooking. Invite your loved ones to enjoy the soup together. It’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy weekends to weeknight dinners. Bon appétit!