Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe: Perfect Comfort Food
Instant Pot cooking uses a multi-functional electric pressure cooker to speed up meal preparation. It combines features of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, and more. Pressure cooking involves building steam pressure inside the sealed pot. This method cooks food faster than traditional techniques, retaining flavors and nutrients. The Instant Pot simplifies cooking, making it perfect for busy individuals seeking efficient meal solutions.
Key Ingredients and Flavors
Split Peas
Split peas are the base of this soup, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. They break down during cooking, creating a thick and hearty consistency.
Ham
Ham brings a smoky, savory taste to the soup. Adding bone-in ham hocks or diced ham increases flavor complexity.
Vegetables
Aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery add depth. These vegetables create a robust flavor foundation when sautéed before pressure cooking.
Herbs and Spices
Bay leaves, thyme, and pepper enhance the soup’s taste. These spices bring warmth and a balanced flavor profile.
Broth
Using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water adds richness. The broth intensifies the soup’s flavors, making each spoonful satisfying.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Dietary Fiber | 13g |
| Fat | 6g |
This data indicates that Instant Pot Split Pea and Ham Soup is a hearty, protein-rich dish. The high fiber content makes it a filling meal option.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Choosing the Right Ham
Opt for a smoked ham hock, diced cooked ham, or ham steaks. Smoked ham hock offers a deep, smoky flavor that’s ideal for split pea soup. Diced cooked ham integrates easily and provides tenderness. Ham steaks work well if you prefer larger meat chunks. Always ensure the ham is free of excess fat to maintain a balanced soup texture.
Selecting and Preparing Split Peas
Go for green or yellow split peas, found in most grocery stores. Rinse the peas thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris or discolored peas. Soaking isn’t necessary for Instant Pot cooking, reducing preparation time. Cleaned, unsoaked split peas cook quickly and create a creamy consistency.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Sauteing Ingredients
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Saute” function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. When the oil heats up, add 1 cup of diced onions, 1 cup of diced carrots, and 1 cup of diced celery. Stir the vegetables occasionally for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring frequently for 1 minute. This step releases the flavors, blending them into a harmonious base for your soup.
Pressure Cooking the Soup
After the vegetables are tender, add 2 cups of split peas, 1 pound of diced ham, 6 cups of chicken broth, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Secure the Instant Pot lid, and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode, then set the timer to 15 minutes. After the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid, stir the soup, and remove the bay leaf before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
Health Benefits of Split Peas
Split peas, the primary ingredient in Instant Pot Split Pea and Ham Soup, offer numerous health benefits. They contain high levels of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut. One cup of cooked split peas provides about 16 grams of fiber. This fiber content helps regulate blood sugar levels, making split peas beneficial for those managing diabetes.
Split peas are also a significant source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. You get around 16 grams of protein per cup of cooked split peas. Additionally, split peas contain vital minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium. These minerals support immunity and overall cellular function. Their low-fat content makes split peas a heart-healthy option, reducing bad cholesterol levels.
Why Ham Adds More Than Flavor
Ham, although commonly valued for its smoky flavor, adds substantial nutritional benefits to the soup. It provides a rich source of high-quality animal protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function. For every 3-ounce serving, you get around 18 grams of protein.
Ham is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. It contains significant amounts of B vitamins, such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and B6. These vitamins play crucial roles in energy production and brain health. Additionally, ham offers minerals like phosphorus and potassium, which aid in bone health and muscle function, respectively.
The sodium content in ham can be high, so using moderate quantities helps balance the soup’s nutritional profile. Combining ham with split peas and vegetables creates a nutrient-dense meal that supports various aspects of health.
Serving and Storage Tips
Best Practices for Serving
Ladle the Instant Pot Split Pea and Ham Soup into bowls to serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad to create a complete meal. Serve while hot to enjoy the rich flavors.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover soup in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop. If microwaving, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. On the stovetop, reheat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Split Pea and Ham Soup is a hearty and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. By combining the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and balanced dish that supports your health. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or reheating leftovers, this soup offers comfort and convenience. So, grab your Instant Pot and get ready to savor a bowl of this flavorful and satisfying soup.
