Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a classic dish that warms the soul with its creamy texture and rich flavors. This hearty soup is not only comforting but also nutritious, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with family and friends. Packed with vibrant vegetables, protein-rich split peas, and savory ham, this recipe stands out as both wholesome and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a festive occasion, Split Pea Soup is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup comes together effortlessly.
- Flavorful and Filling: The combination of split peas and ham creates a rich taste that satisfies hunger.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or alongside a salad or sandwich for a complete meal.
- Healthy Option: Packed with fiber and protein, this soup is both nourishing and delicious.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Great for using up leftover ham, making it an economical choice for your meals.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make the perfect Split Pea Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife for chopping
- Cutting board
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: This ensures even heat distribution while cooking, preventing the soup from burning.
- Blender: Using a blender allows you to create a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup, enhancing its richness.
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, plus more ham if desired)
- 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 (5.5 quart or larger) heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion begins to turn golden brown, about 5–8 minutes. Then add minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about one minute before adding rinsed split peas.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Simmer
Add the ham bone along with bay leaves and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the peas do not stick to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
Once cooked, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred off any meat you can find on it before discarding both bone(s) and fat. Return shredded ham back into the soup. Remove bay leaves from the pot as well. Take out two cups of soup and blend until completely smooth using a blender. Return this puree back into the pot for added creaminess.
Step 4: Serve Your Delicious Soup
Ladle hot soup into bowls while serving with hearty buttered bread on the side. Feel free to sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves on top if desired. Enjoy your delightful bowl of Split Pea Soup!
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Serving Split Pea Soup is an opportunity to enhance its rich flavors and create a comforting meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy this hearty dish.
With Hearty Bread
- Crusty Baguette – Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic combination; the melty cheese complements the soup perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of brightness.
- Thyme Leaves – Fresh thyme enhances the earthy flavor of the soup.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad – The crunchiness of romaine and savory dressing contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
- Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.
Garnished with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar – Sprinkle some sharp cheddar on top for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Feta Crumbles – For a tangy twist, add feta cheese as a topping.
How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
Making the perfect Split Pea Soup requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your soup.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality ham will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
- Soak Split Peas Overnight – This helps them cook evenly and can reduce cooking time.
- Adjust Thickness – If the soup is too thick, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Blend for Creaminess – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without added cream.
- Taste as You Go – Adjust seasonings throughout cooking for the best flavor balance.
- Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; it tastes even better the next day.
Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
To make your meal even more satisfying, consider pairing Split Pea Soup with these delicious side dishes. They complement its flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds a crunchy element to your meal.
- Coleslaw – The crunch and acidity of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- Potato Wedges – Baked or fried potato wedges are hearty and fun to dip into the soup!
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and flavor diversity to your plate.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers protein and texture that pairs well with split pea soup.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins make for a delightful pairing that balances savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for a perfect soup.
- Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always use fresh peas for the best texture and flavor.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to cook them until soft and golden.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Under-seasoning or over-seasoning can ruin your soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too short or too long can affect the final consistency. Monitor your soup closely, especially as it thickens.
- Forgetting to blend some of the soup: A smooth texture is often desired in Split Pea Soup. Remember to blend part of it for that creamy finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Split Pea Soup
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Split Pea Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making Split Pea Soup.
Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute vegetable broth and omit the ham bone for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I know when my split peas are done?
The peas should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, resulting in a thick consistency.
What can I add to my Split Pea Soup?
Feel free to customize with additional veggies like potatoes or spinach, or spices like paprika for extra flavor!
Is Split Pea Soup healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious meal option.
How long does it take to cook Split Pea Soup?
Cooking usually takes about 60-90 minutes on low heat once all ingredients are combined.
Final Thoughts
Split Pea Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with crusty bread, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try!
Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights and gatherings. This hearty soup features a creamy texture and rich flavors from protein-packed split peas and savory ham. With vibrant vegetables, it’s not just delicious but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Easy to prepare, this comforting dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete dining experience. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or serving it at a festive occasion, Split Pea Soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups finely diced onion
- 1 cup finely diced carrot
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1.5 cups green split peas
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- Meaty ham bone or ham hocks
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper; cook until softened (5–8 minutes). Stir in garlic and spices.
- Add rinsed split peas, ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes until peas are tender.
- Remove ham bone; shred meat and return to soup. Blend part of the soup for creaminess.
- Serve hot with buttered bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
