A warm bowl of split pea & ham soup on a cold day is perfect for lunch or dinner. With 160 calories in 1 cup, it's a satisfying and healthy meal option.

In addition to being low in calories, split pea & ham soup is packed with essential nutrients. One serving provides 21 grams of protein, 15 grams of dietary fiber, 17% of the recommended daily intake of iron, and 45% of folate.

In this article, we'll discuss the nutritional content, benefits, recipe, variations, storage, and serving suggestions for split pea & ham soup.

Get the Nutritional Content of 1 cup Split Pea & Ham Soup

A single serving of split pea & ham soup, which is one cup or eight fluid ounces, contains the following nutrients: - 160 calories - 21 grams of protein - 15 grams of dietary fiber - 17% of the recommended daily intake of iron - 45% of folate

Why is Split Pea & Ham Soup Good for You?

Split pea & ham soup is considered to be a healthy meal option due to its nutrient-rich content. Here are some reasons why it's good for you: - Protein: Split peas and ham are both high in protein, which is essential for building and repairing body tissues. - Fiber: The high fiber content in split peas can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote digestive health. Ham also contains small amounts of fiber.

How to Make Split Pea & Ham Soup?

Making split pea & ham soup is easy and requires minimal ingredients. Here's a simple recipe to get you started: - Ingredients: 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 lb. ham hock or ham bone 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth 2 bay leaves Salt and pepper, to taste - Instructions: 1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and cook until softened. 2. Add the split peas, ham hock, broth, and bay leaves to the pot. 3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, or until the peas are tender. 4. Remove bay leaves and ham hock. 5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches. (Optional) 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

What are the Benefits of Eating Split Pea & Ham Soup?

Split pea & ham soup has several benefits for your health. Here are a few: - Heart Health: The dietary fiber in split peas can reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels. - Digestive Health: The fiber and nutrients in split peas can promote healthy digestion and regularity. - Weight Management: Split pea & ham soup is low in calories and high in protein and fiber, making it an ideal meal for weight loss. - Nutrient-rich: Split peas and ham are both great sources of essential nutrients like protein, iron, and folate that your body needs to stay healthy.

How to Store Split Pea & Ham Soup Properly?

Split pea & ham soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months. Here are some tips for proper storage: - Let the soup cool down before storing it in an airtight container. - Label the container with the date and contents. - Store the soup in the fridge or freezer immediately. - When reheating, make sure the soup reaches a temperature of 165°F to kill any bacteria that may have grown during storage.

Is Split Pea & Ham Soup Gluten-Free?

Split pea & ham soup is gluten-free as long as the ingredients used are gluten-free. Be sure to check the label of any packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. If you are sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease, it's always best to check with your doctor or a registered dietitian to ensure you're getting the right nutritional information.

What are the Variations of Split Pea & Ham Soup?

Split pea & ham soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to try: - Vegetarian: Omit the ham hock or bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra spices or herbs, like cumin or bay leaves, for flavor. - Smoky: Swap the ham hock for smoked ham or bacon to infuse the soup with a smoky flavor. - Creamy: Add a dollop of heavy cream to the soup after blending to make it creamy and rich. - Chunky: Leave the soup unblended for a chunky texture and add diced carrots or celery during the cooking process.

How to Serve Split Pea & Ham Soup?

Split pea & ham soup can be a hearty main course or a delicious appetizer. Here are some suggestions for serving: - Top with croutons or toasted bread for added texture. - Serve with a side salad or a crusty piece of bread for a complete meal. - Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. - Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.

Can Vegans and Vegetarians Eat Split Pea & Ham Soup?

Traditional split pea & ham soup contains animal products, making it unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians. However, there are variations of the recipe that can be made without meat, like vegetable broth and spices for flavor. If you're vegan or vegetarian, be sure to check the ingredients used in the recipe and adjust as necessary.

How to Reheat Split Pea & Ham Soup Safely?

To reheat split pea & ham soup, follow these guidelines to ensure safety: - Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl or a small pot. - Heat the soup on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring after each interval, until it reaches a temperature of 165°F. - Alternatively, heat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot. - Discard any soup that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.