Published January 1, 2011. From Cook's Illustrated.
Instead of the traditional hambone, we opted for a ham steak. Simmering the steak and some bacon in the broth made our Split-Pea and Ham Soup recipe smoky and meaty. Unsoaked peas absorbed the pork-enriched broth so that every layer of the soup was deeply flavored. Gently fried croutons floated on top of the split-pea soup were the perfect finish to this updated classic.
Four ounces of regular sliced bacon can be used, but the thinner slices are a little harder to remove from the soup. Depending on the age and brand of split peas, the consistency of the soup may vary slightly. If the soup is too thin at the end of step 3, increase the heat and simmer, uncovered, until the desired consistency is reached. If it is too thick, thin it with a little water. Serve the soup sprinkled with Buttery Croutons (related), fresh peas, and chopped mint and drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar. The soup can be made up to 3 days in advance. If necessary, thin it with water when reheating.
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