The Tastiest Chunky Pea and Ham Soup

Cozy Holiday Comfort Food

By HomeFindss Kitchen

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There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Chunky Pea and Ham Soup on a cold winter night. This classic holiday comfort food transforms simple ingredients into something rich and deeply satisfying. With smoky ham, tender peas, and aromatic herbs, it’s a traditional winter soup recipe that feels both nostalgic and nourishing.

Whether you’re looking to use up Christmas ham leftovers or simply crave a hearty meal to warm the family, this recipe brings cozy charm and rustic holiday flavour to your table.

Chunky Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

INGREDIENTS

Serves 6–8:

2 cups dried split peas, rinsed

1 large smoked ham hock or 2 cups chopped ham

1 large onion, diced

2 carrots, chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

1 tsp thyme

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Fresh parsley, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. Sauté Aromatics:

In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

2. Add Ham and Peas:

Stir in the ham hock (or chopped ham), split peas, thyme, and bay leaf.

3. Simmer Slowly:

Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and soup is thick and chunky.

4. Adjust Seasoning:

Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve Warm:

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with crusty bread or warm rolls for the perfect holiday comfort dinner.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside buttered garlic toast or warm sourdough bread.

• Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness.

• Make ahead and refrigerate — the flavours deepen beautifully overnight.

This recipe is perfect for:

1. Christmas Leftover Recipes

2. Winter Comfort Food

3. New Year Family Dinner Ideas

4. Holiday Soup Recipes

5. Easy Homemade Soups

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