Ngā Kākano Pī (Legumes): Pea & Ham Soup

At Mai Kai, we’re all about getting whānau buzzing about ngā kākano pī – legumes!

Why? Because legumes are tāonga for our whenua and our kai:

  • They’re affordable, nutritious, and easy to grow in Aotearoa
  • They fix nitrogen in the soil, helping future crops thrive
  • They’re easy to store, and even their by-products (like peastraw) are useful in the māra kai, for animals, or even building
  • They’re kai rangatira — full of complex carbs and plant-based protein to nourish our bodies and keep our puku full

If we’re serious about building kai resilience and looking after our whānau for the next generation, legumes are coming with us.

Hearty Pea & Ham Soup Recipe

Simple, warming, and whānau-approved

You’ll need:

  • 1 ham hock (organic & nitrate-free if possible)
  • 250g dried green split peas (optional: soak overnight)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • Optional: sprig of thyme, black pepper, butter or oil for cooking

Step 1: Cook the Ham Hock

  • Place ham hock in a large pot and cover with water.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 1–2 hours, until the meat is falling off the bone.
  • Skim any foam from the top. Top up with more water as needed.
  • Once cooked, remove the hock and set aside to cool.
  • Strain the stock – this is your soup base.

Step 2: Build the Flavour

  • In a new pot, melt a little butter or heat oil.
  • Gently fry the chopped onion until soft and sweet.
  • Add:
    • 6 cups of your ham stock
    • The split peas (drained and rinsed if soaked)
    • Black pepper and thyme (if using)

Step 3: Cook & Blend

  • Simmer gently for about an hour, until the peas are soft and starting to break down.
    • (Note: soaked peas cook faster. Older peas may take longer. Keep an eye on the pot and top up with stock if needed.)
  • Once cooked, use a stick blender to blend the soup to your preferred texture — chunky or smooth.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

  • Shred the cooled ham and stir it through the soup.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning.
  • Serve hot with bread and butter, and enjoy with your whānau.

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