Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham
A comforting, protein-packed dish, filled with tender peas, savory ham, and flavorful spices, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups split peas – Rinse and sort to remove any debris.
- 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced ham – Adds smoky flavor and richness.
- 1 medium onion diced – The base of any great soup.
- 2 carrots sliced – For a touch of sweetness.
- 2 celery stalks diced – Adds depth to the flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves minced – Because garlic makes everything better.
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock – The backbone of your soup.
- 1-2 bay leaves – For an aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A subtle herby note.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Optional Add Ons
- A splash of heavy cream or dollop of sour cream for richness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish.
- Croutons or a slice of crusty bread for serving.
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Rinse and sort the split peas. Dice onion, celery, and carrots, and mince garlic. If using cooked ham, dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Combine and Simmer: Add split peas, ham bone (or diced ham), stock, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Finish Soup: Once peas are soft and soup is creamy, remove the ham bone. Shred any meat from the bone and stir it back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional Blending: Use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup for a smoother texture.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with cream, parsley, or croutons. Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast.
Notes
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Divide into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Make-Ahead Magic
- Chop your veggies and rinse your peas the night before to streamline prep.
- This soup can also be made in a slow cooker! Combine everything and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This hearty split pea soup with ham is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas:- Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or buttery cornbread.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine, a light beer, or a hot cup of herbal tea.
- Dessert: End the meal on a sweet note with apple crisp or lemon bars.
Tips and Hacks
- Speed it up: Use pre-chopped mirepoix (a mix of onion, carrot, and celery) from the store.
- Thicker soup: Simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes, or add a handful of mashed potatoes.
- Budget-friendly: A ham hock or bone is affordable and adds incredible flavor.
- Smooth texture: Use a blender for a creamy soup, or mash it with a potato masher for a chunkier version.