Split Pea and Ham Soup
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Split Pea and Ham Soup is a hearty, thick soup made from dried split peas, typically simmered with a meaty ham bone or ham hocks for deep, savory flavor. Common additions include onions, carrots, celery, and herbs like thyme, creating a comforting, rustic dish. It is a classic staple in American, British, and Northern European cuisines, often associated with home cooking and using leftover holiday ham.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This soup is a balanced meal, offering a good mix of plant-based protein and fiber from the split peas, along with some fat from the ham. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) provides around 250-350 calories, with key nutrients including iron, potassium, and B vitamins.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a prime example of 'waste-not' cooking, transforming a leftover ham bone into a nourishing new meal. Nutritionally, the combination of split peas and ham creates a complete protein profile, making it a particularly satisfying and sustaining dish.