Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul with its thick, creamy texture and rich flavors. This classic recipe combines wholesome split peas, tender ham, and a medley of fresh vegetables, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Whether served as a hearty dinner or a delightful lunch, this soup never fails to impress. With its robust taste and nutritional benefits, Split Pea Soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavorful: The combination of spices and ham adds depth and richness that elevates this soup beyond the ordinary.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber and protein, Split Pea Soup is both filling and healthy.
- Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Split Pea Soup, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even cooking without burning the bottom of your soup.
- Blender: Helps create a smooth texture if you prefer creamier soup; however, blending is optional.
Ingredients
Split Pea Soup is thick, creamy, and packed with veggies, split peas, and tender ham—humble-looking but bursting with flavor!
For the Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups finely diced onion (2 medium onions)
- 1 cup finely diced carrot (2 to 3 large carrots)
- 1 cup finely diced celery (3 to 4 stalks)
- Salt and pepper
For Flavoring
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (4 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Soup
- 1-1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed; old split peas may not soften)
- 2 small bay leaves (or 1 large)
- 1 meaty ham bone (or ham hocks, see note 3, plus more ham if desired)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
For Serving
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Hearty buttered bread (for serving)
How to Make Split Pea Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large (5.5 quart or larger) heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil. Add onion, carrot, celery, and salt/pepper to taste (I add 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Cook until veggies are softened and onion is beginning to turn golden, about 5–8 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, red pepper flakes, and cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute. Then add rinsed split peas and mix through.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
Add the ham bone, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil. After boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so the peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Cook until peas are tender and soup has thickened to your liking. If it gets too thick for your preference during cooking, add a splash more broth.
Step 3: Prepare for Serving
Once ready to serve, remove the ham bone from the soup. Shred off as much meat as you can from the bone before discarding it along with any fat. Return shredded ham back into the soup. If you enjoy chunks of ham in your soup, you may want to add additional chopped ham at this stage.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
Remove bay leaves from the pot. Take out about 2 cups of the soup into a blender container and blend until completely smooth. Return this blended puree back into the pot and mix thoroughly with remaining soup. Taste one last time before serving; adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if necessary.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls. Serve with hearty buttered bread alongside a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy this warm bowl of comfort!
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With Hearty Bread
- Pair your soup with crusty sourdough or whole-grain bread for a satisfying crunch.
- Serve warm, buttered rolls alongside for dipping.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with fresh thyme leaves to add a burst of flavor.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.
With A Side Salad
- A light green salad can balance the richness of the soup.
- Choose a refreshing vinaigrette to complement the flavors in the Split Pea Soup.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top enhances the soup’s creaminess.
- This also adds a beautiful sheen and additional flavor.
As a Main Dish
- Serve it as the main course, especially on chilly evenings.
- Add extra ham or bacon bits for those who enjoy more protein.
How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
Creating the perfect Split Pea Soup involves a few essential tips. Follow these guidelines to enhance your cooking process.
- Use Fresh Peas: Starting with fresh split peas ensures they’re soft and flavorful. Old peas may not cook properly.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup becomes too thick, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired texture.
- Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup before returning it to the pot.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adding salt and spices gradually helps achieve balanced flavors throughout.
- Add Ham at the Right Time: Include ham towards the end of cooking if you want it tender but not overly cooked.
- Let It Sit: Allowing your soup to rest for 30 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread smothered in garlic butter adds a crispy texture that goes well with the creamy soup.
- Caesar Salad: The crunch from romaine lettuce and croutons, combined with creamy Caesar dressing, makes for a classic pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide earthy sweetness that complements the soup’s flavor profile.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of Split Pea Soup, enhancing each bite.
- Cheese Quesadillas: Warm quesadillas filled with cheese make for an easy yet delicious side dish that pairs well with soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add a satisfying crunch that balances out the creamy texture of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Split Pea Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using old peas: Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the packaging date and use fresh split peas for the best results.
- Not seasoning early: Adding salt too late can result in bland soup. Season your veggies while sautéing to enhance their flavor from the start.
- Skipping the blending step: For a creamy texture, blending part of the soup is essential. Don’t skip this step unless you prefer a chunkier soup.
- Ignoring cooking time: Split Pea Soup needs adequate simmering time to develop its flavors. Be patient and let it cook for at least 60 minutes.
- Overcrowding the pot: Trying to make too much soup at once can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended serving size for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Split Pea Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Split Pea Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, adding broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Split Pea Soup so nutritious?
Split Pea Soup is packed with fiber and protein from split peas, making it a healthy choice that supports digestive health and keeps you full longer.
Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers of Split Pea Soup?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I customize my Split Pea Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach, or adjust spices according to your preference.
Is Split Pea Soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it contains no wheat products. Always check your broth label if you have gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Split Pea Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham and can easily be adjusted with various vegetables or spices. Try this recipe and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness that’s sure to satisfy!
Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Split Pea Soup is a delightful blend of hearty green split peas, tender ham, and vibrant vegetables that creates a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This classic recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps, ensuring a warm, filling meal that will impress family and friends. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, this soup is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile—ideal as a main course or side dish. Enjoy it fresh or savor the flavors even more as leftovers!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups diced onion
- 1 cup diced carrot
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1.5 cups green split peas
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 meaty ham bone
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper until softened (about 5-8 minutes). Add garlic and spices; cook for another minute.
- Stir in rinsed split peas, ham bone, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60-90 minutes until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone and shred any meat back into the soup. Blend part of the soup if desired for creaminess.
- Serve hot with fresh thyme leaves and crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
