The Hairy Bikers Pea And Ham Soup Recipe is a true classic. It is warm, thick, and very filling. This Hairy Bikers Pea And Ham Soup Recipe is perfect for cold days.

Families love it because it feels like a big hug. You can learn how to make Hairy Bikers Pea And Ham Soup Recipe easily at home. It is cheap to make and tastes amazing.

What Makes This Recipe Special

The flavor is smoky and very deep. It uses a ham hock for a salty kick. The texture is thick, smooth, and very creamy.

It feels like comfort food in every single spoonful. This soup is simple to cook but takes time. Most of the time is just letting it simmer.

The peas break down and create a natural thickness. You do not need to be a pro chef. It is a foolproof meal for any home cook.

Equipment List

Large Soup Pot: You need this to hold all the liquid. It must be deep enough for the ham hock.

Sharp Kitchen Knife: This helps you chop the vegetables neatly. A dull knife makes the work much harder.

Wooden Spoon: Use this to stir the soup often. It prevents the peas from sticking to the bottom.

Cutting Board: This provides a safe surface for your prep work. It keeps your counters clean and safe.

Measuring Jug: You need this to measure your water or stock. Accuracy helps get the perfect soup consistency.

Hand Blender: This is used if you want a smoother soup. It turns chunky bits into a silky liquid.

Large Bowl: Use this to soak your peas overnight. They need plenty of space to expand.

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Pea And Ham Soup Recipe

Dried Split Peas: These are the base of your soup. They provide the green color and thick texture.

Ham Hock: This is the star of the dish. It adds a wonderful smoky and salty flavor.

Onions: These add a subtle sweetness to the base. They soften as they cook with the meat.

Carrots: These give the soup a nice bit of color. They also add a gentle, earthy flavor.

Celery: This vegetable adds a savory depth to the pot. It is a staple for any good soup.

Leeks: These provide a mild onion-like taste. They melt into the soup beautifully.

Bay Leaves: These herbs add a hidden layer of scent. They make the soup smell very professional.

Black Pepper: This adds a tiny bit of heat. It balances the saltiness of the ham well.

Water: This is the liquid that cooks the peas. It turns into a rich broth over time.

How to Assemble Hairy Bikers Pea And Ham Soup Recipe

Step 1:

Soak your dried peas in a large bowl. Cover them with plenty of cold water overnight. This makes them soft and easy to cook.

Step 2:

Drain the peas and rinse them under the tap. Put the ham hock into your large pot. Cover the ham with fresh, cold water.

Step 3:

Bring the pot to a boil on the stove. Let it bubble for about five minutes. This removes any excess salt from the meat.

Step 4:

Discard that water and rinse the ham hock again. Put the ham back into the clean pot. Add the soaked peas and the chopped vegetables.

Step 5:

Pour in fresh water to cover everything well. Add the bay leaves and some black pepper. Do not add salt yet because ham is salty.

Step 6:

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer now. Cover the pot with a tight lid. Let it cook slowly for about two hours.

Step 7:

Check the meat to see if it is tender. It should fall off the bone very easily. Remove the ham hock from the pot carefully.

Step 8:

Take the meat off the bone and shred it. Throw away the bone and any fatty bits. Put the shredded meat back into the soup.

Step 9:

Stir the soup well to mix everything together. The peas should be totally soft and mushy. Taste it to see if it needs salt.

Recipe Notes

Use yellow split peas if you want a different color.

Always soak the peas to avoid a grainy soup texture.

Taste the broth before adding any extra salt at all.

Remove the bay leaves before you serve the hot soup.

Add a splash of cream for an extra rich finish.

Chop the vegetables into very small pieces for better eating.

Keep the heat low so the bottom does not burn.

Use a smoked ham hock for the very best flavor.

How To Store Leftover

You can keep this soup in the fridge easily. Put it in an airtight container once it cools. It will stay fresh for up to four days.

The soup will get much thicker as it sits. Just add a little water when you reheat it. You can also freeze this soup for three months. It is great for quick lunches later on.

Sides & Pairings Suggestions

This soup goes great with warm crusty bread. You can also try it with some salty crackers. A side of cheese toasties is also a perfect match.

The melted cheese pairs well with the smoky ham. Some people like a dollop of mustard on top. It adds a nice zing to the heavy peas. A simple green salad works well too.

Nutritions

Nutrient	Value
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	28g
Fat	8g
Fiber	12g
Iron	4mg

FAQs about Hairy Bikers Pea And Ham Soup Recipe

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you certainly can use a slow cooker. Cook it on low for eight hours for best results. The ham will be very soft.

Do I have to soak the peas?

Soaking is best for the very best texture. If you skip it, the peas take much longer. They might stay a bit crunchy.

Can I use bacon instead of ham?

You can use thick bacon lardons if needed. However, the ham hock gives a much deeper flavor. The bone adds great nutrients.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally free from gluten. Just check your stock if you use any. It is a very healthy choice.

Final Thoughts

Making this soup is a great way to relax. It fills your home with a wonderful, cozy aroma. Everyone will want a second bowl of this meal.

It is a timeless dish that never goes out of style. You will love how simple and tasty it is. Give this recipe a try this weekend for your family.