1 cup (240 ml) Chunky Split Pea & Ham contains about 160 calories. This hearty soup is a perfect meal during the chilly days. It is a great way to incorporate legumes and proteins into your diet. Split pea soup is a classic comfort food, and the addition of ham makes it even more fulfilling.

In addition to being delicious, Chunky Split Pea & Ham is also very nutritious. Split peas are low in fat and high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Ham is a good source of protein and other essential nutrients.

In this article, we'll go over the ingredients used in Chunky Split Pea & Ham, how it's prepared, its health benefits, healthy alternatives, suitable time to consume it, storage instructions, serving suggestions, possible side effects, and answers to some common questions.

Calories Present in Chunky Split Pea & Ham

The calories present in Chunky Split Pea & Ham can vary depending on the recipe and serving size. However, a typical serving of 1 cup (240 ml) contains around 160 calories, with 26 grams of carbohydrates, 9 grams of protein, and 2 grams of fat. If you are counting calories, it is important to keep track of your portion sizes so you can maintain or lose weight. To make this dish even healthier, you can reduce the amount of salt and fat and add more vegetables.

Ingredients of Chunky Split Pea & Ham

The primary ingredients in Chunky Split Pea & Ham are split peas and ham. Other ingredients may include carrots, celery, onions, garlic, bay leaves, chicken stock, and seasonings. These ingredients give the soup its rich, savory flavor. Split peas are a type of legume that is high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Ham is a good source of lean protein and essential nutrients. Vegetables like carrots and celery add flavor and texture while providing a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Preparation of Chunky Split Pea & Ham

To make Chunky Split Pea & Ham, start by rinsing the split peas and soaking them for at least an hour. In a large pot, sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery until they are soft. Add minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute. Add the soaked split peas, diced ham, chicken stock, bay leaves, and your choice of seasonings. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the split peas are tender. Remove the bay leaves and serve hot. You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or using different types of meat or stock. If you have an Instant Pot or other pressure cooker, you can cook the soup in a fraction of the time.

Benefits of Consuming Chunky Split Pea & Ham

Chunky Split Pea & Ham has several health benefits. Firstly, it is high in protein and fiber, which can help you feel satiated and reduce your appetite. It is also low in fat, which makes it a good option for those who want to limit their fat intake. Split peas are rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. They are also a good source of B vitamins, iron, and potassium. Ham is a good source of essential amino acids, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Healthy Alternatives to Chunky Split Pea & Ham

If you are looking for healthy alternatives to Chunky Split Pea & Ham, there are several options. You can make a vegetarian split pea soup by omitting the ham and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Another option is to use a leaner meat, such as chicken or turkey, instead of ham. You can also add more vegetables to increase the soup's nutritional value. If you are trying to reduce your sodium intake, make sure to use low-sodium stock and seasonings, and omit or reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe. To reduce the fat content, you can skim off any fat that rises to the surface while the soup is cooking.

Suitable Time to Consume Chunky Split Pea & Ham

Chunky Split Pea & Ham is a hearty and filling soup that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It is particularly suitable for cold or rainy days, as it can provide warmth and comfort. You can have it as a meal on its own, or serve it with crusty bread, salad, or a sandwich. It is important to note that beans and legumes can cause flatulence and bloating in some people, so it may not be suitable for those with digestive problems.

Storage Instructions for Chunky Split Pea & Ham

You can store Chunky Split Pea & Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. If you plan to freeze the soup, make sure to cool it down completely first and leave some room in the container for expansion. When reheating the soup, you may need to add some water or stock to thin it out, as it can thicken over time. It is important to reheat the soup thoroughly to avoid any potential foodborne illness.

Serving Suggestions for Chunky Split Pea & Ham

Chunky Split Pea & Ham can be served in a variety of ways. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, or croutons. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess. You can pair the soup with a grain, such as rice or quinoa, or a salad for a more balanced meal. If you're serving it as an appetizer, you can make smaller portions and serve it in shot glasses or ceramic spoons.

Possible Side Effects of Consuming Chunky Split Pea & Ham

While Chunky Split Pea & Ham is generally safe to consume, it can cause some side effects in certain individuals. For example, people with G6PD deficiency, a genetic condition that affects red blood cells, should avoid eating fava beans and other legumes, as they can trigger hemolysis, or the breakdown of red blood cells. Beans and legumes can also cause flatulence, bloating, and digestive problems in some people. To reduce the risk of these side effects, make sure to soak the split peas overnight and discard the water before cooking. You can also add some spices, such as cumin or ginger, to the soup to aid digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chunky Split Pea & Ham

Q: Can I make Chunky Split Pea & Ham in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can cook the soup on low heat in a slow cooker for about 6-8 hours, or until the split peas are tender. You can also sauté the vegetables first for more flavor. Q: Is Chunky Split Pea & Ham vegan? A: No, Chunky Split Pea & Ham contains ham, which is a meat product. However, you can make a vegan version of the soup by omitting the ham and using vegetable stock. Q: Can I freeze Chunky Split Pea & Ham? A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it down completely first and leave some room in the container for expansion.