Best Ever Slow Cooker Ham and Pea Soup

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, you’ve come to the right place. This slow cooker ham and pea soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s hearty, nutritious, and full of flavor. Whether you’re battling chilly weather or just craving a cozy dinner, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

With simple ingredients and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll love how effortless it is to whip up this dish. Plus, it’s packed with nutritional goodness, making it a great option for both family dinners and meal prep.

What Does Ham and Pea Soup Taste Like?

If you’ve never tried ham and pea soup, let’s start with its flavor profile. This dish is:

• Savory and smoky, thanks to the ham hock or gammon joint.
• Earthy and slightly sweet, courtesy of the carrots and split peas.
• Creamy and hearty, with the split peas naturally thickening the soup as they cook.

One bite and you’ll experience a comforting richness that feels both nourishing and indulgent. The slow cooking process deepens the flavors, making each spoonful better than the last.

Ingredients Needed

Making this slow cooker ham and pea soup requires simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Purpose of the Recipe
Yellow Split Peas	Thickens the soup and provides creaminess.
Ham Hock/Gammon	Adds smokiness and depth of flavor.
Carrot	Balances the savory flavors with sweetness.
Celery	Adds freshness and crunch.
Onion	Enhances the flavor base of the soup.
Garlic	Provides warmth and richness.
Chicken Stock	Forms the liquid base of the soup.
Dried Mixed Herbs	Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
Bay Leaves	Infuse subtle herbal notes.

Pro Tip: Always use fresh ingredients for the best results, and try to opt for a high-quality ham hock or gammon joint.

Choosing the Right Ham

The type of ham you choose can make or break your soup. Here’s a breakdown:

Type of Ham	Flavor Profile	Best Use
Ham Hock	Smoky, rich, and salty.	The traditional option for pea soup.
Gammon Joint	Less smoky but tender and meaty.	Great for less smoky taste.
Leftover Ham	Mild and versatile.	Perfect for quick recipes.

Real-World Example: A home cook from Canada shared how using a smoked ham hock gave her soup an extra layer of flavor, impressing her family at a holiday dinner.

What Are Split Peas?

Split peas are dried peas that are peeled and split, making them cook faster than whole peas. There are two main types:

• Yellow Split Peas: Milder and slightly sweeter.
• Green Split Peas: Earthier and nuttier.

Nutritional Benefits of Split Peas

Nutrient	Per 1 Cup (Cooked)	Benefits
Protein	16g	Helps build and repair tissues.
Fiber	16g	Supports digestion.
Iron	2.5mg	Boosts energy and prevents anemia.
Folate	127mcg	Essential for cell function.

Split peas are also naturally low in fat and gluten-free, making them a fantastic choice for a nutritious meal.

Do Split Peas Need Soaking?

The short answer: No!

Unlike beans, split peas don’t need soaking before cooking. However, soaking can:

• Reduce cooking time.
• Improve digestibility.

If you’re short on time, give them a quick rinse to remove any debris, and they’re ready to go!

How Easy Is This Slow Cooker Ham and Pea Soup?

This recipe is incredibly simple, even for beginners. Here’s a quick overview of the steps:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Chop the vegetables and rinse the split peas.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Add the split peas, vegetables, ham hock, and seasonings.
3. Add Stock: Pour in the chicken stock to cover everything.
4. Set and Forget: Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Shred the Ham: Remove the ham, shred it, and stir it back in.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Tip: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.

What to Serve with Ham and Pea Soup

To complement this hearty dish, consider these options:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Croutons: Add crunch and flavor.
• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp contrast to the soup’s richness.

Can This Soup Be Frozen?

Absolutely! Here’s how:

Freezing Tips:

1. Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
2. Store in airtight containers or freezer bags.
3. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Storage Time:

• In the freezer: Up to 3 months.
• In the fridge: 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.

Pro Tips for the Best Ham and Pea Soup

1. Balance the Salt: Ham can be salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
2. Add Extra Veggies: Try parsnips, leeks, or potatoes for variety.
3. Blend for Texture: For a creamy consistency, blend part of the soup.
4. Season Smart: Add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This best-ever slow cooker ham and pea soup is a timeless recipe that combines ease, nutrition, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this soup is sure to impress.

FAQs

Can I use green split peas instead of yellow?

Yes, green split peas work just as well and offer a slightly nuttier flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ham for smoked paprika and use vegetable stock.

Do I have to use a slow cooker?

No, you can cook it on the stove or in an Instant Pot.

Why is my soup too thick?

Add more stock or water to thin it to your desired consistency.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.