Homemade Campbell Condensed Split Pea with Ham Soup Can Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Delight

Category: Soup

Introduction

Campbell's Condensed Split Pea with Ham Soup has been a pantry staple for many households for decades. Its creamy texture and the subtle sweetness of split peas, combined with the savory flavor of ham, make it a comforting and convenient meal option. However, many of us are becoming more health-conscious, seeking to reduce sodium, preservatives, and artificial additives found in store-bought soups. This homemade version allows you to enjoy the same comforting flavor while customizing ingredients to suit your dietary preferences and improving nutritional value. Plus, it's cost-effective and allows you to avoid the can, making it a more sustainable option.

I remember the first time I decided to make my own version of this soup. I was surprised at how easy it was to replicate the flavor profile using fresh vegetables and high-quality ham. The best part was being able to reduce the sodium content without sacrificing taste. Now, it's a regular in my household, and I love that I can adjust the ingredients based on what's available in my fridge.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own condensed split pea soup at home offers several advantages:

• Healthier Ingredients: Reduce sodium and eliminate preservatives found in store-bought versions.
• Customization: Adjust the amount of ham, vegetables, and seasonings to your liking.
• Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than buying multiple cans, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk.
• Fresh Taste: Fresh vegetables and herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
• Sustainability: Avoid the environmental impact of cans and packaging.

Personal Anecdote

I grew up on Campbell's soups; they were a comfort food staple in my home. However, as I became more aware of the ingredients and their health implications, I decided to take matters into my own hands. The first time I made this soup from scratch, I was amazed at how much better it tasted compared to the canned version. The split peas were fresher, the ham added a more robust flavor, and I could control the seasoning. It's now a favorite in my household, and I love knowing exactly what goes into each batch.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:45 minutes
• **Total Time:60 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings (equivalent to 2 cans)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup (180g) split peas (green or yellow, rinsed and drained)
• 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Wet Ingredients:

• 4 cups (1L) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (250ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk or non-dairy alternative (optional, for creaminess)

Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion (150g), diced
• 2 cloves garlic (6g), minced
• 1 medium carrot (60g), diced
• 1 celery stalk (40g), diced

Protein:

• 6 oz (170g) cooked ham, diced (low-sodium or homemade)
• 2 slices of bacon (optional, for added smokiness)

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme
• 1 tsp (5g) dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onion, carrot, celery, and garlic until softened, about 8 minutes. If using bacon, cook until crispy, then remove some for garnish if desired.

• Add Ham and Spices: Stir in the diced ham, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

• Cook Split Peas: Add the split peas to the pot, stirring to coat them with the aromatics and spices. Cook for about 2 minutes.

• Add Broth and Water: Pour in the broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

• Thicken Soup (Optional): If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix the flour with a little water to make a slurry and stir it into the soup. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.

• Blend for Creaminess (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, or transfer a portion to a blender and return it to the pot.

• Season to Taste: Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Variations

• Low-Sodium Version: Use homemade broth with minimal sodium and opt for low-sodium ham.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked ham or add a bit of liquid smoke.
• Vegan Version: Replace ham with smoked tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.

Pro Tips

• Enhance Flavor: Roast the vegetables in the oven before sautéing for deeper flavor.
• Quick Cooking: Use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time to about 15 minutes.
• Texture Control: For a chunkier soup, don’t over-blend; for a smoother texture, blend more thoroughly.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh split peas? Yes, but they may require longer cooking time.
• How do I make it gluten-free? Ensure the broth and any added ingredients are gluten-free.
• Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
• What if the soup is too thick? Add a bit more water or broth to achieve desired consistency.
• Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Use a vegan ham alternative and vegetable broth for a vegan version.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or crackers.
• Add Some Crunch: Top with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Meal Prep: Use as a base and add cooked proteins or extra vegetables for variety.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Campbell's Condensed Split Pea with Ham Soup offers a healthier, more customizable alternative to the store-bought can. With reduced sodium, no preservatives, and the flexibility to adjust ingredients, it's a nutritious and delicious option for any meal. Plus, the cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits make it a sustainable choice. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort of homemade soup with the assurance of knowing exactly what you're serving your family.