Say goodbye to watery split pea soup! discover the magic ingredient for thickening with ham
What To Know
- Whisk a few tablespoons of either flour or cornstarch into a small amount of cold water or broth to form a slurry.
- Mix a tablespoon of arrowroot powder with a small amount of cold water or broth to form a slurry.
- To prevent lumps, always whisk thickeners into a small amount of cold water or broth to form a slurry before adding them to the soup.
Split pea soup, a comforting classic, can be elevated to new heights of flavor and texture by incorporating tender ham. However, achieving the perfect thickness for a satisfying bowl of soup requires some culinary know-how. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you master the art of thickening split pea soup with ham:
1. Purée a Portion of the Soup
Puréeing a portion of the cooked soup is an effective way to add body and thickness. Use an immersion blender or transfer a few cups of soup to a blender. Purée until smooth, then stir it back into the main pot. This technique adds a velvety texture without overpowering the flavor.
2. Add Flour or Cornstarch
Flour and cornstarch are common thickening agents that can be incorporated into split pea soup. Whisk a few tablespoons of either flour or cornstarch into a small amount of cold water or broth to form a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the simmering soup while stirring constantly. This will prevent lumps from forming.
3. Use Arrowroot Powder
Arrowroot powder is a starch-based thickener that dissolves easily and provides a clear, glossy finish. Mix a tablespoon of arrowroot powder with a small amount of cold water or broth to form a slurry. Add the slurry to the soup and bring it back to a simmer, stirring until thickened.
4. Involve a Roux
A roux is a mixture of equal parts fat and flour that creates a flavorful and thickening base. Heat a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a small saucepan. Whisk in a tablespoon of flour and cook for a minute or two, until golden brown. Gradually add the roux to the split pea soup while whisking vigorously.
5. Incorporate Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes provide a creamy texture and subtly thicken split pea soup. Peel and boil a few potatoes until tender. Mash them until smooth and stir them into the soup. This method is especially effective for soups that are already creamy or pureed.
6. Use Vegetable Puree
Pureeing a cup of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or onions, can add thickness and enhance the flavor of split pea soup. Sauté the vegetables until softened, then purée them using an immersion blender or regular blender. Stir the puree into the soup.
7. Consider Tapioca Pearls
Tapioca pearls are small, starch-based beads that swell when cooked, adding thickness and a slightly chewy texture. Rinse the pearls thoroughly before adding them to the soup. They will absorb liquid and expand, thickening the soup as they cook.
Final Note: Soup-erbly Thickened Split Pea Perfection
With these thickening techniques at your disposal, you can transform your split pea soup with ham into a culinary masterpiece. Experiment with different methods and find what best suits your taste and texture preferences. Remember, a little bit of thickening can go a long way, so add it gradually and taste as you go. Enjoy your bowl of thick, flavorful, and satisfying split pea soup with ham!
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use heavy cream to thicken split pea soup?
A: While heavy cream can add richness, it may not be the best choice for thickening split pea soup. It can overpower the flavor and make the soup too creamy.
Q: How can I thicken split pea soup without adding flour?
A: You can use cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or mashed potatoes to thicken split pea soup without adding flour.
Q: How do I prevent lumps from forming when adding thickeners?
A: To prevent lumps, always whisk thickeners into a small amount of cold water or broth to form a slurry before adding them to the soup.
