Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a classic Canadian side that holds a distinguished place in traditional cooking. Celebrated for its wholesome ingredients and time-honored preparation, this dish brings authentic regional character to the home kitchen.
Carefully prepared featuring Ham, Peas, Onions, Carrots, Bay Leaves, Celery, Frozen Peas and Bread, the ingredients are simmered and seasoned to achieve a satisfying depth of flavor. The cooking process allows natural aromas to develop, ensuring each portion is both hearty and flavorful.
Serve as an enticing appetizer with complementary dipping sauces or as an accompaniment to a hearty main course.
If you enjoy authentic Canadian cooking, be sure to also explore our recipe for Beavertails.
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Ingredients
- Ham1kg
- Peas200g (soaked overnight)
- Onions2 chopped
- Carrots2 chopped
- Bay Leaves2
- Celery1 chopped
- Frozen Peas300g
- Breadto serve
Step-by-Step Instructions
14 stepsInteractive Cook Mode: Click any step or circle to check it off as you cook.
Put the gammon in a very large pan with 2 litres water and bring to the boil.
Remove from the heat and drain off the water – this helps to get rid of some of the saltiness.
Recover with 2 litres cold water and bring to the boil again.
Put everything but the frozen peas into the pan and bring to the boil.
Reduce to a simmer and cook for 1½-2½ hrs, topping up the water as and when you need to, to a similar level it started at.
As the ham cooks and softens, you can halve it if you want, so it is all submerged under the liquid.
When the ham is tender enough to pull into shreds, it is ready.
Lift out the ham, peel off and discard the skin.
While it is still hot (wear a clean pair of rubber gloves), shred the meat.
Remove bay from the soup and stir in the frozen peas.
Simmer for 1 min, then blend until smooth.
Add a splash of water if too thick, and return to the pan to heat through if it has cooled, or if you are making ahead.
When you are ready to serve, mix the hot soup with most of the ham – gently reheat if made ahead.
Serve in bowls with the remaining ham scattered on top, and eat with crusty bread and butter.
👨🍳 Chef's Culinary Notes
Cultural Heritage
Split Pea Soup carries a rich culinary tradition rooted in regional home cooking. Developed over generations, the recipe highlights wholesome local ingredients prepared with time-honored kitchen techniques.
Dietary Substitutions
For a richer sauce, replace a portion of the water with homemade bone broth, vegetable stock, or a splash of dry wine or red wine vinegar to cut through richness.
Chef Technique Tips
Take the time to thoroughly sear and brown ham in batches before adding the braising liquid. The caramelized fond deposited on the bottom of the pot dissolves into the stew, providing depth and body that cannot be rushed.
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