Soup, Pea, Split With Ham, Canned, Condensed: How Many Grams in a Tablespoon?

FAQ

Why is condensed split pea with ham soup so much denser than other condensed soups?

Split peas break down almost entirely into a starchy puree during cooking, leaving very little free water in the condensed product. Combined with the protein and fat from ham pieces, this creates a condensate with substantially more solids per unit volume than broth-based soups, pushing the density to 1.141 g/ml compared to the typical 1.04 to 1.07 range.

Does the thick consistency of condensed split pea soup affect how it should be measured by volume?

Yes, the paste-like texture can trap air pockets when scooped into a measuring cup, leading to inconsistent weights. For accurate recipe work, it helps to tap the measuring cup on the counter to settle the soup and eliminate voids, or weigh the soup directly using the 1.141 g/ml density as a reference.

Can condensed split pea soup be used undiluted as a sauce or spread?

The undiluted condensate works well as a thick base for savory dips or as a spread on crostini, since the pureed peas and ham already form a cohesive paste. Keep in mind that each tablespoon of the concentrate weighs nearly 17 g and carries proportionally concentrated sodium, so adjust seasoning when using it in this way.