Mary Berry’s Pea and Ham Soup is a classic British comfort dish, combining sweet peas and tender ham in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a quick and simple recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner on a chilly day. This recipe serves 4–6 people and takes around 45 minutes to prepare and cook.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the steps to make Mary Berry’s Pea and Ham Soup, with tips to ensure the perfect consistency and flavor every time.
What is Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup?
Mary Berry’s Pea and Ham Soup is a creamy, satisfying dish made from a blend of fresh or frozen peas, ham, and a few other simple ingredients. It’s an easy-to-make, nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for using leftover ham.
Other Popular Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: A simple recipe that comes together in under an hour.
- Great for Leftovers: It’s a perfect way to use up leftover ham.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber and protein, this soup is a healthy option.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweetness of the peas makes it a favorite for children.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you need a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup fits the bill.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 500g (17.6 oz) frozen peas or fresh peas
- 1 liter (34 fl oz) vegetable or chicken stock
- 200g (7 oz) cooked ham (I used beef ham), diced
- 100ml (3.4 fl oz) single cream (optional for added creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot
- Blender or immersion blender
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Wooden spoon
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened, but not browned.
Step 2: Add the Peas and Stock
Stir in the frozen peas, followed by the vegetable or chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the peas to cook through.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can leave some peas whole.
Step 4: Add the Ham
Stir in the diced ham and cook for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors combine. If you’re using cream, stir it in at this point for extra richness.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and serve hot.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup?
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Cheese Toasties: Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty meal.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad complements the soup nicely.
- Crackers: Add a crunchy element by serving with your favorite crackers.
- Garlic Bread: A flavorful side to soak up every last bit of the soup.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup
- Use Fresh or Frozen Peas: Both work well, but fresh peas give a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Don’t overblend: For a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-salting, especially if your ham is salty.
- Add Cream for Richness: If you prefer a richer soup, stir in cream at the end.
- Customize the Herbs: Fresh mint adds a unique flavor, but parsley or thyme works well too.
Variations of Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup
- Add Leeks: Include finely chopped leeks for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- Swap the Ham: Try bacon or pancetta for a slightly smokier taste.
- Add Potatoes: For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes to the mix.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
How Do I Store Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
- Portion It Out Divide into individual servings before freezing for quick meals.
- Label the Container: Always label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
How Do I Reheat Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup Leftovers?
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is warmed through.
- Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Oven: Warm the soup in a covered oven-safe dish at 160°C (320°F) for about 20 minutes.
- Add a Splash of Stock: If the soup thickens during storage, add a bit of stock or water when reheating.
- Stir Well: Ensure the soup is evenly reheated by stirring well before serving.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen in Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup?
Yes, you can use fresh peas instead of frozen for Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup. Fresh peas add a slightly sweeter flavor to the soup, but the cooking time remains the same.
Can I make Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup without cream?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup without cream. The soup will still be delicious and creamy due to the blended peas. If you prefer a richer texture, you can substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative or leave it out entirely.
How long does Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup last in the fridge?
Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup will last for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating and reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Mary Berry Pea and Ham Soup. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Pea and Ham Soup is a comforting, delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it with fresh or frozen peas, the result is a rich and satisfying soup that your family will love. Try it out for your next lunch or dinner, and enjoy the simple yet flavorful combination of sweet peas and savory ham.