Split Pea and Ham Soup: A Culinary Delight
Split pea and ham soup is a culinary masterpiece that has been enjoyed for centuries. This comforting and flavorful dish is a perfect blend of savory ham and tender split peas, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Split pea and ham soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It is packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional profile:
- Calories: 191 per cup
- Protein: 12 grams per cup
- Fat: 2.5 grams per cup
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams per cup
- Fiber: 4.9 grams per cup
- Sugar: 5 grams per cup
The high protein content in split pea and ham soup makes it an excellent source of amino acids, which are essential for building and repairing body tissues. Additionally, the fiber content promotes satiety and supports a healthy digestive system.
Culinary Versatility
Split pea and ham soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few ideas for incorporating this culinary delight into your meals:
- Main Course: Serve split pea and ham soup as a hearty and satisfying main course for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of bread or crackers for a complete meal.
- Appetizer: Offer split pea and ham soup as an appetizer before a main course. Its warm and comforting flavors will whet the appetite and prepare your guests for the meal ahead.
- Side Dish: Split pea and ham soup can be served as a side dish to complement grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or salads. Its rich flavor will enhance the overall dining experience.
Easy Preparation
Split pea and ham soup is surprisingly easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a delicious and nourishing dish that the whole family will enjoy. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound split peas, picked over and rinsed
- 1 ham bone (or 1 pound ham, cubed)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the split peas, ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the split peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone and discard. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt to taste and enjoy!
Conclusion
Split pea and ham soup is a culinary treasure that offers a delicious and nutritious meal option. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a hearty main course, a comforting appetizer, or a flavorful side dish, split pea and ham soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.
How many calories are in Split Pea And Ham Soup?
Each 1 cup of Split Pea And Ham Soup contains 191 calories.
Split Pea And Ham Soup Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup (245g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 191 Calories |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 2.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0.0098mg |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.9g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 0.779mg |
| Potassium | mg |
| Calcium | 0.02mg |
| Iron | 0.0014mg |