Comforting Pea and Ham Soup

𝐘𝐀𝐘 𝐎𝐑 𝐍𝐀𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 Comforting Pea and Ham Soup? 🥣✨
This classic Pea and Ham Soup is hearty, filling, and packed with flavor—perfect for cozy nights! Serve it with buttered bread for the ultimate comfort meal. 🍞💛

🌟 Ingredients:
🥓 1 smoked ham hock (or 2 cups diced ham)
🥕 2 carrots, diced
🧅 1 large onion, chopped
🥔 2 medium potatoes, diced
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf 🍃
1 cup green split peas
6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
Salt and pepper to taste
🥄 Prep & Assembly:
Prep the Ham Hock: Place the ham hock in a large pot and cover with stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
Add Veggies: Toss in the carrots, onion, potatoes, garlic, and bay leaf. Let it simmer for another hour until the peas and vegetables are soft.
Shred the Ham: Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaf.
Blend or Leave Chunky: Blend some of the soup for a creamier texture or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper, and serve with warm, buttered bread.