Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

The Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe is warm, hearty and full of comfort. It is thick, creamy and packed with smoky flavor.

If you are wondering how to make Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe, you are in the right place.

The simple ingredients for Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe create a rich and filling meal. This soup is perfect for cold evenings and cozy family dinners.

Why I Love Making This Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup

I love making this soup when the weather feels chilly. The smell of simmering ham fills the whole kitchen. It reminds me of simple family dinners.

My mother often made pea soup on weekends. We enjoyed it with fresh bread and butter.This Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe feels comforting and traditional.

It is easy to prepare and very budget friendly. One pot can feed the whole family. That makes it perfect for busy days.

Equipment List

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring cups
• Ladle
• Hand blender or regular blender (optional)

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Course: Soup
• Cuisine: British
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

• 500 g dried green split peas
• 1 smoked ham hock (about 800 g)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1.5 liters chicken stock
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Rinse the Split Peas

Place dried split peas in a large bowl. Rinse them under cold water. Remove any small stones or damaged peas. Draining the peas helps improve texture while cooking.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the onion, carrots and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Keeping vegetables evenly sized helps them cook at the same speed and blend smoothly later.

3. Start the Base

Place a large soup pot on medium heat. Add a splash of oil. Add chopped onion, carrots and celery. Cook gently for about five minutes. Stir often until vegetables soften slightly.

4. Add Garlic and Herbs

Add minced garlic, thyme and bay leaf. Stir for one minute until fragrant. Cooking herbs briefly releases their aroma and builds flavor in the soup base.

5. Add Ham Hock and Peas

Place the smoked ham hock into the pot. Add rinsed split peas. Pour in chicken stock until everything is covered. The ham will slowly release its rich smoky flavor.

6. Simmer Slowly

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 90 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The peas will soften and thicken the soup.

7. Remove and Shred Ham

Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Let it cool slightly. Remove skin and bones. Shred the tender meat into small pieces using two forks.

8. Blend the Soup

Use a hand blender to blend the soup until smooth. You can leave some texture if preferred. Blending creates a creamy consistency without adding cream.

9. Return Ham and Season

Add shredded ham back into the soup. Stir well. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Simmer for five more minutes before serving hot. This completes how to make Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe at home.

Read More: James Martin Leek and Potato Soup Recipe

Expert Tips & Variations

• Soak split peas overnight for faster cooking.
• Add potatoes for extra thickness.
• Use leftover roast ham instead of ham hock.
• Add a splash of cream for richer texture.
• Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for crunch.
• Serve with crusty bread for a full meal.

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Pea and ham soup has been popular in Britain for centuries. It was known as “pease pudding” in old times. The dish was simple and affordable.

The cooking duo Hairy Bikers helped make traditional British recipes popular again. Their hearty style celebrates simple home cooking.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

This soup pairs perfectly with warm crusty bread. Add butter or cheese toast on the side. You can serve it with a simple green salad.

It also tastes great with savory scones. For a complete dinner, add roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Occasion or Event Ideas

This soup is perfect for winter dinners. It works well for family gatherings. Serve it during holiday seasons for cozy comfort. It is also great for meal prep Sundays. One big pot saves time during busy weeks.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
• Add a little water or stock if soup thickens too much.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	30 g
Fat	10 g
Fiber	8 g
Sodium	780 mg

Health Benefits

Pea and ham soup is rich in protein and fiber. Split peas support digestion and keep you full longer. The ham provides iron and protein for muscle strength.

Vegetables add vitamins and antioxidants. This hearty soup offers balanced nutrition in one comforting bowl.

FAQs about Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

1. Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?

Yes, yellow split peas work well. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. Cooking time remains similar and texture stays thick and creamy.

2. Can I make this soup without ham?

Yes, you can skip the ham for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable stock and add smoked paprika for smoky flavor.

3. How do I make the soup thicker?

If the soup feels thin, simmer uncovered for extra time. You can also mash some peas or add a small diced potato.

4. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Shred ham and blend before serving.

5. Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores well and tastes even better the next day. Flavors deepen as it rests in the fridge overnight.

Final Thoughts

The Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe is simple, hearty and full of comfort. Now you know how to make Hairy Bikers Pea and Ham Soup Recipe with easy steps and basic ingredients.

The rich flavor and creamy texture make it unforgettable. Try it once and it may become your favorite winter soup.