Split pea soup with ham

Split pea soup with ham is a traditional and comforting dish very popular in Spanish and Latin American cuisine. This soup is prepared using split peas, also known as split peas or split peas, which are dried peas split in half and dehydrated. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and B vitamins, making it a nutritious and filling option.

The star ingredient, split pea soup, has an origin that dates back to rural and peasant recipes, where the ham garnish provides a characteristic smoky and salty flavor that enhances the overall dish. The ham, in its various varieties (such as serrano ham in Spain or cooked ham in Latin America), adds animal protein and an umami profile that complements the softness and natural sweetness of the peas.

In different Spanish-speaking countries, split peas go by various names, such as split peas (in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile), split peas (Mexico) or simply dried peas. This is important to facilitate their search and selection in local markets.

This ingredient is ideal for preparing comforting recipes, especially during cold seasons, and can be combined with vegetables, aromatic herbs, and different types of ham or sausages to create a thick and nutritious soup, perfect as a main course or starter.