Hearty and Delicious Pea and Ham Soup!
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
1 lb dried split peas, rinsed and drained
1 ham hock (or 2 cups diced ham)
8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Sauté Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Split Peas and Ham:
Add the rinsed split peas to the pot along with the ham hock (or diced ham).
Add Broth and Spices:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the bay leaves and dried thyme. Stir well to combine.
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove Ham Hock:
If using a ham hock, remove it from the pot once the soup is done. Shred the meat off the bone and return the shredded meat to the soup, discarding the bone and any excess fat.
Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Enjoy your comforting and hearty Pea and Ham Soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day!