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There’s something deeply comforting about the rich aroma and creamy texture of a homemade split pea soup simmering gently on the stove. This recipe invites you into a world where simple ingredients become a hearty, soul-soothing meal that warms both body and spirit. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic favorite or a nutritious dish for chilly days, this split pea soup promises to wrap you in cozy satisfaction with every spoonful.
PrintClassic Split Pea Soup That’s Rich and Flavorful
A hearty, creamy split pea soup packed with smoky ham, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a cozy meal on chilly days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (1 medium)
- 1 1/4 cups chopped celery (about 3 ribs)
- 1 tsp minced garlic (1 clove)
- 4 cups unsalted chicken broth
- 4 cups water
- 1 (16 oz) bag dried split peas, picked over and rinsed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 1/2 tsp chopped fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 lb meaty ham bone or ham shanks
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery and sauté 3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute longer.
2. Pour in chicken broth and water. Add split peas, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Nestle ham bone into soup mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, 60-80 minutes.
4. Remove ham and shred meat. Add carrots to soup and simmer 30 minutes more.
5. Stir shredded ham back in. Adjust salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with parsley.
Notes
Rinse split peas carefully before use.
Adjust salt gradually due to ham saltiness.
Soup tastes better the next day.
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers.
Ingredients for Perfect Split Pea Soup
Creating a bowl of wholesome split pea soup starts with fresh, quality ingredients that meld together to offer a symphony of flavors. Below is a detailed list to prepare for this nourishing delight:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 Tbsp | Use pure olive oil for mild, versatile flavor |
| Yellow onion, chopped | 1 1/2 cups (1 medium onion) | Enhances sweetness and depth |
| Celery, chopped | 1 1/4 cups (about 3 ribs) | Adds crisp, aromatic undertones |
| Minced garlic | 1 tsp (1 clove) | Boosts savory richness |
| Unsalted chicken broth | 4 cups | Base for body and warmth |
| Water | 4 cups | Balances broth and controls thickness |
| Dried split peas, picked and rinsed | 16 oz (1 bag) | Core ingredient for creaminess and protein |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves | Infuses subtle herbal fragrance |
| Fresh thyme, chopped | 1 1/2 tsp | Or 1/2 tsp dried thyme for earthy complexity |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste | Adjust seasoning at the end for perfect balance |
| Meaty ham bone or ham shanks | 1 1/2 lb | Adds smoky depth and richness |
| Carrots, chopped | 1 cup | Brings sweetness and texture |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish (optional) | Adds vibrant color and fresh flavor |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Delicious Split Pea Soup
Mastering this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, leading you to a creamy, flavorful soup that tastes like a warm hug. Follow these steps carefully for the best results:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, releasing its robust aroma.
2. Build the Soup Base
Pour in 4 cups of unsalted chicken broth along with 4 cups of water. Add the rinsed split peas, 2 bay leaves, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of chopped thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme). Lightly season with salt and pepper, reserving additional seasoning for later.
3. Add the Ham and Simmer
Nestle the 1 1/2-pound ham bone or ham shanks into the mixture. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 60 to 80 minutes. This slow cooking allows the peas to soften and the ham to impart its rich flavor.
4. Remove and Prepare Ham Meat
Carefully take the ham bone out of the soup and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Shred or dice the ham meat from the bone into bite-sized pieces and set aside, covered to keep warm.
5. Add Carrots and Continue Cooking
Add the chopped carrots to the simmering soup, cover again, and let cook for about 30 more minutes or until the split peas have nearly broken down, creating a smooth, thick texture.
6. Final Seasoning and Serving
Stir the shredded ham back into the soup. Adjust the salt and pepper according to taste, considering the ham’s natural saltiness. Serve the soup warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Helpful Tips for Cooking Split Pea Soup Like a Pro
- Rinse and sort peas: Always pick over the dried split peas to remove any debris and rinse thoroughly to ensure a clean, smooth soup base.
- Use a ham bone with meat: This adds incredible flavor and texture. If unavailable, ham hocks or cooked ham chunks are fine alternatives.
- Control salt carefully: Since the ham adds saltiness, add salt gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
- Don’t rush the simmer: Low and slow cooking melds flavors perfectly and avoids a grainy texture.
- Leftovers improve with time: Split pea soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup Recipe
This recipe is a treasure of comfort, nourishment, and simplicity. It suits beginners and seasoned cooks alike and fits perfectly into a wholesome eating lifestyle. With vibrant veggies, wholesome peas, and smoky ham, it offers balanced nutrients, including protein, fiber, and vitamins, comforting your body as much as your soul.
Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Soup
What makes split pea soup healthy?
Split peas are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients that aid digestion and sustain energy. Combined with fresh vegetables and moderate fat from olive oil, this soup is a balanced, heart-healthy meal option.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can enhance flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky taste.
How long can I store split pea soup?
Properly refrigerated, split pea soup lasts up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Can I use fresh peas instead of dried split peas?
Dried split peas break down to create that creamy texture unique to this soup. Fresh peas won’t provide the same consistency and require different cooking time.
Does split pea soup freeze well?
Absolutely. It freezes brilliantly. Just leave out the garnish when freezing and add fresh parsley when reheating.
Conclusion: Embrace the Cozy Flavor of Homemade Split Pea Soup
You deserve meals that nourish deeply and bring joy with every bite. This split pea soup recipe embodies just that a blend of hearty ingredients, comforting flavors, and simple steps resulting in a delicious tradition that welcomes you home. Make a pot today and let your kitchen fill with warmth, aroma, and the promise of satisfying nourishment.