Hearty Pea and Ham Soup Recipe: Cozy Comfort in a Bowl

Cozy winter nights call for a hearty pea and ham soup that warms you from the inside out.

Memories of grandma’s kitchen drift through my mind with each aromatic spoonful.

Cold afternoons deserve comfort in a bowl, where smoky ham meets sweet green peas.

Fragrant herbs and tender vegetables create a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Rich broth simmers with rustic ingredients, promising a meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Nutritious and satisfying, this classic recipe connects generations through its simple, soulful preparation.

Jump into this delightful soup and savor every comforting bite.

Why Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup Is So Comforting

• Unpack Simplicity: This pea and ham soup recipe breaks down complex cooking into straightforward, manageable steps anyone can master, making it perfect for home cooks with varying skill levels.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Packed with hearty ingredients like ham and potatoes, this soup delivers a warm, satisfying meal that hugs your taste buds and provides ultimate comfort during any meal.
• Quick Nutrition Boost: Combining protein-rich ham with nutrient-dense peas and potatoes, this recipe offers a balanced dish that's both delicious and nutritionally smart for busy families.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Whether you're looking for a cozy lunch, starter course, or light dinner, this adaptable soup fits multiple dining scenarios and can be easily scaled to serve different group sizes.

Ingredients For Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup

• Peas: Sweet green legumes that provide the base flavor and color for the soup.
• Ham: Salty, rich meat that adds depth and protein to the soup.
• Potato: Starchy vegetable that helps thicken and create a creamy texture.

• Onion: Aromatic vegetable that builds a flavor foundation for the soup.

• Butter, Stock, Salt, Pepper: Key components for creating a rich and well-seasoned soup base.

Cooking Guide For Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Sautéing Base

Heat a large pot over medium warmth. Drop in butter and let it melt completely. Toss chopped onions into the melted butter and cook them gently, stirring occasionally until they become translucent and soft, releasing their sweet aroma.

Step 2: Introduce Potato and Liquid

Add diced potatoes to the softened onions. Pour in the stock, creating a flavorful liquid base. Allow the mixture to simmer quietly, letting the potatoes become tender and absorb the surrounding flavors. The potatoes will gradually soften and start to break down slightly.

Step 3: Incorporate Green Peas

Slide the green peas into the simmering pot. Increase the heat to bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil. Let the peas cook for approximately two minutes, which will brighten their color and preserve their fresh taste.

Step 4: Create Smooth Soup Texture

Remove the pot from the heat source. Use an immersion blender or standard blender to transform the soup into a silky, smooth consistency. Work carefully to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and no chunks remain.

Step 5: Finish with Ham and Serve

Fold chopped ham pieces into the creamy soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the warm soup into serving bowls, ready to be enjoyed immediately with crusty bread on the side.

Practical Tips For Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup

• Soften Onions Slowly: Cook onions on low heat to develop a sweet, mellow flavor without burning, enhancing the soup's base.
• Choose Quality Ham: Select a meaty, smoky ham hock or leftover roast ham for rich, deep flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Blend for Silky Texture: Use an immersion blender or food processor to create a smooth, creamy consistency without lumps.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste and add salt and pepper gradually, as ham can be naturally salty, to prevent over-seasoning.
• Serve Temperature Matters: Enjoy the soup hot but not boiling to maintain its delicate texture and preserve the ham's tenderness.

Flavor Additions For Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup

• Vegetarian Green Soup: Replace ham with smoked tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein alternative.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip dairy-based garnishes.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap potato with cauliflower to reduce carbohydrate content and maintain creamy texture.
• Spicy Mediterranean Variation: Add roasted red peppers and sprinkle with chili flakes for extra warmth and flavor complexity.

What To Serve With Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup

• Elevate Soup's Flavor Profile: Pair this hearty pea and ham soup with a crisp, dry Riesling that cuts through the soup's richness and complements its savory notes.
• Rustic Bread Companion: Serve alongside a crusty sourdough or rustic country bread to soak up the soup's creamy texture and add a delightful crunch.
• Wine Alternative Delight: Choose a light-bodied Pinot Noir with subtle earthy undertones that harmonize beautifully with the ham's smoky flavor and the soup's creamy consistency.
• Refreshing Salad Balance: Add a zesty green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to provide a fresh, acidic contrast that lightens the soup's hearty character.

Storage Instructions For Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup

• Store soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Transfer frozen soup to the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, use the defrost setting on the microwave for quick thawing.
• Warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. For microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even temperature. Add a splash of water or stock if the soup seems too thick.

FAQs About Mary Berry Pea And Ham Soup

• What type of ham works best for this soup?

Use cooked ham or leftover ham from a roast. Smoked ham adds extra flavor and depth to the soup.

• Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, replace ham with smoked tofu or extra vegetables like carrots for added protein and texture.

• Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just freeze without the ham and add fresh ham when reheating.

• Do I need a special blender to make this soup smooth?

No, any standard blender or immersion blender works perfectly. Just ensure you blend in batches if using a standard blender to avoid overflow.

Bounteous Pea And Ham Soup Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Pea and Ham Soup blends smoky ham hock with sweet green peas, creating a comforting classic that warms from within. Rich broth and tender legumes invite you to savor each spoonful of this timeless culinary embrace.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein and Vegetables:

• 300 grams (10.5 ounces) ham, diced
• 500 grams (17.6 ounces) frozen peas
• 1 medium potato, diced

Liquid Base:

• 1 liter (4.2 cups) ham or pork stock

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 knob (approximately 1 tablespoon) butter

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, then gently sauté onions until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced potatoes and pour in stock, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until potatoes become tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Introduce fresh or frozen peas into the simmering liquid, increasing heat to bring the soup to a rapid boil and cook for 2-3 minutes to preserve their vibrant color and nutrients.
4. Remove pot from heat and use an immersion blender or standard blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy, ensuring no chunks remain.
5. Fold in chopped ham pieces, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the soup and allow the meat to warm through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs as desired, ensuring a balanced and flavorful profile.
7. Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of cream if preferred, and serve immediately.

Notes

• Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free version that still delivers rich flavor and helps those with lactose intolerance.
• Opt for low-sodium stock to control salt intake, perfect for health-conscious individuals watching their sodium levels.
• Experiment with smoked ham hock or pancetta for deeper, more intense smoky undertones that elevate the soup’s complexity.
• Freeze extra portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months, creating a convenient make-ahead meal that saves time and reduces food waste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 225 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg