Traditional Quebecois Pea Soup

Name: Traditional Quebecois Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 135 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 2 cups dried yellow peas (rinsed and soaked overnight); 1 large smoked ham hock (about 500g); 2 litres water; 1 large onion (chopped); 2 medium carrots (diced); 2 stalks celery (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; to taste salt and pepper

135 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Warm up with this classic Quebecois pea soup, rich in flavour and heartiness, perfect for chilly days.

Prep

15 min

Cook

120 min

Total

135 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Traditional Quebecois Pea Soup, known locally as 'soupe aux pois,' is a hearty and comforting dish deeply rooted in Canadian culinary history. This soup is a staple in many Quebec households, especially during the colder months when warmth and comfort are paramount. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and rich flavour profile, derived from yellow peas, a smoked ham hock, and a medley of vegetables. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness of early settlers who made the most of their available ingredients to create something truly delicious and nourishing.

Instructions

Prepare the peas

Rinse the dried yellow peas under cold water and soak them overnight in enough water to cover.

Pro tip: Soaking helps soften the peas and reduces cooking time.

Cook the ham hock

In a large pot, combine the soaked peas, smoked ham hock, and 2 litres of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, skimming off any foam.

Pro tip: Ensure the ham hock is fully submerged for even cooking.

Add vegetables

Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Continue to simmer for another hour or until the peas are tender.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Season the soup

Once the peas are tender, remove the ham hock and bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro tip: Taste before adding salt, as the ham can be salty.

Shred the ham

Let the ham hock cool slightly, then check the internal temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer. It should reach 145°F / 63°C, probing the thickest part of the meat away from the bone. Once confirmed, shred the meat and return it to the soup. Discard the bone and any excess fat.

Pro tip: Use two forks to easily shred the meat.

Adjust consistency

If the soup is too thick, add more water to reach your desired consistency. Reheat the soup if necessary before serving.

Pro tip: For a thicker soup, mash some of the peas with a potato masher.

💡

Tips & Tricks

For the best flavour, use a smoked ham hock for depth.
Soaking the peas overnight helps them cook evenly.
Adjust the water level based on your preferred soup thickness.
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is soupe aux pois québec?

Soupe aux pois Québec is a traditional Quebecois pea soup made with yellow peas and often includes a smoked ham hock for flavour.

How do you make soupe au pois jaune?

To make soupe au pois jaune, simmer soaked yellow peas with a smoked ham hock, vegetables, and seasonings until the peas are tender.

Can I make pea soup without a ham hock?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth for added flavour.

How long should I soak yellow peas?

Yellow peas should be soaked overnight, or for at least 8 hours, to ensure they cook evenly.

What are some variations of pea soup?

Variations include adding herbs like thyme or marjoram, or using different smoked meats for flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this traditional pea soup with crusty bread for a wholesome meal. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a sharp cheddar cheese. Prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. The flavours will deepen over time, making leftovers even more delightful.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

18g

Protein

Fat

A hearty and comforting cabbage and ham soup perfect for chilly days.

Easy80 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Food Prep · Meat Tenderisers

KITEXPERT Meat Tenderizer Hammer with Comfortable-Grip Handle, Dual-Side Mallet for Kitchen, Heavy Duty Pounder for Tenderizing Steak, Beef and Fish, Silver

$16.99

Kitchen Utensils · Measuring Spoons

8 Pcs Magnetic Measuring Spoons with Leveler, Stackable Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons Set Dual Sided for Narrow Spice Jars, Metal Measure Tablespoon Teaspoon for Baking Kitchen Gadgets Essentials

$13.88

Pit Boss Grills

700FB Wood Pellet Grill

$799.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.