Introduction
Green Pea and Ham Soup is a delightful fusion of classic flavors, combining the tender sweetness of green peas with the savory depth of ham. This timeless recipe brings together simple yet premium ingredients to create a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any season.
Tips for this Recipe
For best results, ensure your ham hocks are fully submerged in water during the initial cooking stage. This method extracts maximum flavor while keeping the meat tender and easy to remove after cooking.
Why you will love this recipe
This Green Pea and Ham Soup is not just a meal, but an experience that celebrates rich textures and robust flavors. It’s comfort food at its best, with the added bonus of using freezer-friendly peas for convenience.
Ingredients
2 pounds meaty smoked ham hocks
1/2 medium Spanish onion, halved
3 small celery stalks, very roughly chopped
1/2 medium carrot, peeled, very roughly chopped
1 head garlic, halved horizontally, not peeled
1 fresh bay leaf, or 1/2 dried
6 black peppercorns
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 small Spanish onion, finely chopped
1 small carrot, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 teaspoons Maldon or another flaky sea salt
1/2 cup dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
Five-fingered pinch of mint leaves, plus some torn leaves for finishing
Two 10-ounce packages Birds Eye frozen baby peas
Extra virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper
Advised Equipment
– KitchenAid Stand Mixer: For efficiently pureeing ingredients like green peas to achieve a smooth soup texture.
– All-Clad Stainless Steel Saucepan: Versatile for boiling and simmering the soup without reacting with acidic components.
– Bamboo Silicone Ladle Set (3 Pieces): Ideal for stirring, serving, and portion control when transferring cooked soup to bowls.
– Cuisinart Food Processor: Great for chopping ham or green peas if needed before simmering.
– Anodized Aluminum Skillet (12″)
– Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven: Excellent for slow cooking and ensuring even heat distribution.
– OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Cutting Board Set (16″ x 8″)
– Chef’s Knife
– Napkin Holders (2 Pack)
– 4-Cup Measuring Cup with Spout & Scale: Essential for precise ingredient measurement.
History of the Recipe
Green Pea and Ham Soup has a storied history, originating from traditional European cuisine where ham hocks were often simmered with legumes and vegetables to make hearty soups. This recipe takes inspiration from these classic practices, infusing modern techniques for an unforgettable taste that honors its rich past.
Fun Facts About this Recipe
Did you know? The addition of ham hocks to green pea soup is a nod to the French dish ‘Soupe à l’oignon’, which translates to onion soup, and often includes meats for depth of flavor. This version puts a twist by incorporating the smoky notes from ham into our classic green pea base, creating a unique blend that celebrates both flavors while paying homage to culinary history.