Hearty Finnish Hernekeitto with Smoked Ham

Traditional Finnish Pea Soup

A comforting and savory Finnish soup made with split peas and smoked ham, perfect for cozy afternoons.

3 h
6
Easy

Ingredients

For the Pea Soup

2 cups dried split green peas

rinsed and sorted

8 cups water or vegetable stock

1 pound smoked ham hock or smoked ham

diced

1 large onion

finely chopped

2 cloves garlic

minced

2 carrots

peeled and diced

2 bay leaves

Salt and black pepper

to taste

For the Garnishes

Fresh dill

finely chopped

Mustard

optional

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

Rinse and soak peas

The night before, rinse and soak the split peas in water.

Dice the ham

Dice the smoked ham into bite-sized pieces.

Chop the vegetables

Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots.

Cooking Prep

Prepare the peas

Drain and rinse the soaked peas.

Always stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom.

Seasoning prep

Prepare the bay leaves and seasoning.

Using a smoked ham hock adds depth of flavor to the soup.

Get garnishes ready

Have garnishes ready for serving.

Cooking Process

Simmering the Soup

Combine peas, water or stock, smoked ham, onion, garlic, carrots, and bay leaves in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Cooking the Soup

Cover the pot partially and simmer for about 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally until peas are tender.

Final Seasoning

Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.

Plating & Serving