Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul. This creamy soup, filled with tender split peas, fresh vegetables, and hearty ham, is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, Split Pea Soup stands out with its rich flavor and satisfying texture. It’s a humble meal that packs a delicious punch, making it a favorite among many.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices, fresh veggies, and ham creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this soup makes cooking enjoyable for everyone.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein and fiber from split peas and veggies, it’s a healthy choice for dinner.
- Versatile: Customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or using up leftover ham.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot (5.5 quarts or larger)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution to prevent sticking and burning while simmering the soup.
- Blender: Allows you to create a creamy texture by puréeing part of the soup if desired.
Ingredients
Split Pea Soup is thick, creamy, and packed with veggies, split peas, and tender ham—humble-looking but bursting with flavor!
- 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
- 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
- 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)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Hearty buttered bread (for serving)
How to Make Split Pea Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrot, celery, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion starts turning golden, about 5–8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring constantly for an additional minute before adding in the rinsed split peas.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
Next, add the ham bone, bay leaves, and reduced-sodium chicken broth into the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the split peas don’t stick on the bottom of the pot. Continue cooking until the peas have softened and your soup has thickened to your liking. If needed, add a bit more broth if you find it too thick.
Step 3: Prepare for Serving
Once ready to serve, carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred any meat off of it before discarding both bone(s) and fat. Return any shredded ham back into your soup—aim for about 2 cups of meat for added flavor! Don’t forget to remove bay leaves as well. For a creamier texture, scoop out about two cups of soup into a blender until completely smooth then return this puree back into your pot. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 4: Serve Your Soup
Ladle your delicious Split Pea Soup into bowls. Serve alongside hearty buttered bread for dipping. You can finish each bowl with a sprinkle of pepper or some fresh thyme leaves if you like! Enjoy every spoonful!
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Serving Split Pea Soup can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this comforting dish.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the creamy soup perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: A buttery, garlicky loaf adds a rich taste and delightful crunch.
- Breadsticks: Soft and chewy breadsticks are easy to dip into the soup.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a splash of color and freshness.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that enhances the soup.
- Cilantro: For those who enjoy its distinct taste, cilantro brings an earthy note.
With Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan on top adds a salty and nutty flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melting cheddar provides richness and depth to each spoonful.
As Part of a Meal
- Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles add a zesty contrast that brightens the meal.
How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
Perfecting your Split Pea Soup takes a few tips and tricks. Here’s how you can elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Split Peas: Old peas may not soften properly, affecting texture.
- Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add more broth or water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Layer Flavors Early: Sautéing vegetables before adding peas enhances the overall taste.
- Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a smooth, creamy texture without heavy cream.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and spices according to preference throughout cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; gooey cheese between crispy bread makes for comfort food perfection.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted simply bring out their natural sweetness and complement the soup’s flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers protein and texture while maintaining a healthy balance.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges serve as a satisfying side, perfect for dipping in the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness that pairs beautifully with the rich consistency of split pea soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Split Pea Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften during cooking. Always check the expiration date and use fresh peas for the best texture.
- Neglecting seasoning: Seasoning can make or break your soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
- Skipping the blending step: For a creamy consistency, don’t skip blending part of the soup. This adds richness and helps thicken the soup.
- Not stirring enough: Stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
- Overcooking ham bone: Leaving the ham bone in for too long can make it tough. Remove it once you’ve extracted enough flavor and meat.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Split Pea Soup can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Split Pea Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; remember to leave space for expansion.
Reheating Split Pea Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add broth if necessary for desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Split Pea Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some of the most common inquiries.
Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I store leftover Split Pea Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What type of ham works best in Split Pea Soup?
Any meaty ham bone or hocks work well. A smoked variety adds extra flavor, but any cooked ham will do!
Can I add other vegetables to my Split Pea Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe quicker?
For a faster option, consider using a pressure cooker. It can significantly reduce cooking time while still producing flavorful results.
Final Thoughts
Split Pea Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or vegetables based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for using leftover ham and will warm your heart on chilly days!
Split Pea Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Description
Split Pea Soup is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This creamy, hearty dish features tender split peas, vibrant vegetables, and savory ham, making it ideal for cozy evenings or family gatherings. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture are sure to delight everyone at the table. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or reheating leftovers, this Split Pea Soup promises to be a nutritious option packed with protein and fiber. Discover how easy it is to make this classic recipe that warms the soul!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups finely diced onion
- 1 cup finely diced carrot
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1.5 cups green split peas, rinsed
- 2 small bay leaves
- 1 meaty ham bone or ham hocks
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper until softened (about 5–8 minutes). Add garlic and spices; cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the rinsed split peas along with the ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes until peas are soft.
- Remove the ham bone; shred any meat before returning it to the soup. Blend part of the soup for creaminess if desired.
- Serve hot with hearty buttered bread alongside.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
