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his pea and ham soup recipe is thick, hearty, and slow-cooked to perfection

Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

A comforting pea and ham soup recipe that’s rich, hearty, and full of deep, smoky flavor. Perfect for making in the slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot (pressure cooker). Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a guaranteed family favorite.
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Prep Time:10 minutes
Stovetop:3 hours
Total Time:3 hours 10 minutes
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Soup
Keyword: Pea and Ham Soup Recipe
Servings: 7 Servings

Ingredients

  • 1 ham hock or leftover ham bone with meat
  • 2 cups green split peas rinsed
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 6 cups water no broth needed
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Slow Cooker Method:
  • Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours.
  • Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and discard the bone.
  • Blend the soup partially with an immersion blender for a creamy yet chunky texture.
  • Return the shredded ham to the pot, stir, and season to taste.
  • Stovetop Method:
  • Heat a large pot over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrots for a few minutes.
  • Add split peas, ham hock, water, and seasonings.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
  • Pea and Ham Soup Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) Method:
  • Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
  • Seal the lid and set to HIGH pressure for 30 minutes.
  • Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes.
  • Remove the ham, shred, and return it to the soup. Blend if desired.

Notes

  • For extra smokiness, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
  • If your ham hock isn’t meaty enough, toss in some extra diced ham.
  • Soup thickens as it cools—add water if reheating.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.