Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This hearty soup, made with creamy split peas, fresh vegetables, and tender ham, is perfect for family dinners or as a satisfying lunch. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, Split Pea Soup is a timeless classic that appeals to everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fiber and protein, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting dish without hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with hearty buttered bread for a complete meal.
• Great for Leftovers: Split Pea Soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Budget-Friendly: Using leftover ham and pantry staples keeps costs low while still delivering great flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot (5.5 quart or larger)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking or burning of ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and effortless.
• Blender: Allows you to create a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup.

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; plus more ham if desired)
• 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

Optional Additions

• 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, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion turns golden brown, about 5–8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute while stirring constantly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the rinsed split peas into the pot along with the ham bone and bay leaves. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Cook until the split peas are soft and soup has thickened to your liking.

Step 3: Shred Ham & Blend Soup

When ready to serve, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred off as much meat as you can from it; discard any bones or fat remaining. Return shredded ham back into the soup. If desired, add extra chopped ham for more flavor. Remove bay leaves before proceeding.

Step 4: Blend & Serve

Remove about 2 cups of soup from the pot and blend until completely smooth using a blender. Return this blended mixture back into the soup pot; mix well. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed.

Ladle your delicious Split Pea Soup into bowls. Serve hot alongside hearty buttered bread for dipping! Enjoy this flavorful comfort food!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a hearty dish that warms the soul. It can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile option for any meal.

With Hearty Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with a fresh, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the soup.
• Garlic Bread: The rich flavor of garlic bread complements the soup’s creamy texture.
• Grilled Cheese: Pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich creates a classic comfort food combination.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves: A few thyme leaves enhance the herbal notes in the soup.

With Crunchy Toppings

• Croutons: Add croutons for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy soup.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits can add extra flavor and texture, making each bite more satisfying.

Enjoying as a Main Dish

• Served in a Bread Bowl: For an inviting presentation, serve Split Pea Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls.
• Accompanied by Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to this filling dish.

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How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Split Pea Soup is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Split Peas: Fresh peas soften better during cooking. Old split peas may remain hard even after long cooking times.
• Add Flavor Early: Sauté vegetables until soft before adding spices to release their full flavors.
• Adjust Thickness: If your soup becomes too thick, add more broth or water gradually to reach your desired consistency.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup adds creaminess without using heavy cream, making it healthier.
• Season at the End: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup enhances its flavors and makes for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness; try carrots or Brussels sprouts as sides.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are great for dipping into Split Pea Soup.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and texture without overshadowing the main dish.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed peppers filled with grains or meat make for a hearty addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the freshness of your peas before using them.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can lead to mushy flavors. Aim for just softened veggies before adding other ingredients.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning the soup adequately can result in bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping the blending step: For a creamier texture, don’t forget to blend part of the soup. This step adds richness and thickness that enhances flavor.
• Not adjusting consistency: If soup becomes too thick, it might not be enjoyable. Add more broth gradually until you reach your desired texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 30 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Split Pea Soup:

Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit any meat.

How do I thicken my Split Pea Soup?

You can blend a portion of the soup or add more split peas during cooking to achieve a thicker consistency.

What type of ham works best in Split Pea Soup?

Smoked ham hocks or meaty ham bones work wonderfully, providing rich flavor.

Can I use dried split peas instead of fresh?

Yes, dried split peas are perfect for this recipe and are often what is used.

How long does it take to cook Split Pea Soup?

Cooking time typically ranges from 60 to 90 minutes on low heat, depending on desired thickness and pea softness.

Final Thoughts

Split Pea Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This hearty dish is perfect for any occasion and can be customized with various spices or additional ingredients like carrots or potatoes. Whether you’re using leftover ham or preparing it from scratch, this recipe is sure to please!