James Martin Pea And Ham Soup

Delve into the heart of British cuisine with James Martin's Pea and Ham Soup, a classic dish known for its comforting and rich flavors. This recipe is a testament to traditional cooking, blending the savory taste of ham with the fresh, sweet essence of peas to create a hearty and satisfying meal.

James Martin's Pea and Ham Soup: A Culinary Classic

Brief Description of the Recipe: James Martin's Pea and Ham Soup is a beloved British dish that perfectly combines the saltiness of ham with the sweetness of peas. It's a hearty soup that promises warmth and comfort with every spoonful, making it ideal for any meal, whether it's a cozy dinner at home or a sumptuous offering at gatherings.

Cultural or Historical Context: Pea and ham soup has a long-standing history in British cuisine, often associated with frugality and making the most of leftovers. This dish, however, elevates simple ingredients to a level of sophistication and flavor that has been celebrated for generations, showcasing the simplicity and richness of British culinary traditions.

Ingredients List for the Pea and Ham Soup:

• Olive oil (3 tbsp)
• Butter (75g)
• Onion, thinly sliced (300g)
• Crushed garlic (20g)
• Cooked ham, roughly chopped (600g)
• Chicken stock cubes (3)
• Milk (1L)
• Water (1L)
• Frozen peas (1.5kg)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation Instructions:

1. Begin by heating olive oil and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic, allowing them to sweat and become translucent.
3. Introduce the chopped ham to the pan, stirring until slightly golden.
4. Dissolve chicken stock cubes in the mixture of milk and water, then add to the pan.
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer, adding frozen peas for tenderness.
6. Season with salt and pepper. For a smoother soup, an immersion blender can be used.

Storage and Reheating:

Cool the soup before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer preservation. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or stock if the soup has thickened too much.

Nutritional Information:

This soup is rich in protein from the ham and peas, offering a good source of vitamins, especially from the peas which are high in vitamin C and dietary fiber.

FAQ about James Martin's Pea and Ham Soup:

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen? Yes, fresh peas can be used, adjusting cooking time to ensure they do not become too soft.

Can this soup be made vegetarian? Absolutely, by omitting the ham and using vegetable stock cubes.

Is this recipe suitable for a slow cooker? Yes, combining all ingredients in a slow cooker and setting it on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours yields great results.

Can I freeze this soup? Definitely, pea and ham soup freezes well. Just thaw and reheat for a quick meal.

This recipe for Pea and Ham Soup by James Martin is a delightful journey through the flavors of British cuisine, promising a comforting and hearty meal that pays homage to its rich culinary heritage​​​​​​.