Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a comforting, thick dish that combines the wholesome flavors of vegetables, split peas, and tender ham. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this recipe is not only hearty but also nutritious. The creamy texture and rich taste make it a favorite for any occasion, from family gatherings to weeknight meals.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For Flavoring
• For the Soup
• Optional Garnishes
• How to Make Split Pea Soup
• Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 2: Simmer the Soup
• Step 3: Shred Ham and Blend Soup
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Split Pea Soup
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Bread
• Topped with Crunch
• Add a Side Salad
• How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Split Pea Soup
• Reheating Split Pea Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
• What kind of split peas should I use?
• How do I know when split peas are done cooking?
• Can I add other vegetables to my Split Pea Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the natural sweetness of the split peas and the savory flavor of ham.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this soup as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, Split Pea Soup is both filling and healthy, making it an excellent choice for any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Split Pea Soup, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Blender or immersion blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heating and reduces the risk of burning while cooking.
• Blender or immersion blender: Allows you to create a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup for a delightful consistency.

Ingredients

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 Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves
• Hearty buttered bread (for serving)

How to Make Split Pea Soup

Step 1: Sauté 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 along with Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes; cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute. Incorporate rinsed split peas into the mixture.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add the ham bone, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil; then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally so peas don’t stick to the bottom. Cook until split peas are tender and soup reaches your desired thickness. Stir more frequently as it thickens. If it gets too thick for your liking, add a splash more broth.

Step 3: Shred Ham and Blend Soup

When ready to serve, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred off as much meat as possible from the bone. Discard the bones and fat. Return shredded ham back into the soup (aim for about 2 cups). Remove bay leaves before blending part of the soup. Take out 2 cups of soup and blend until completely smooth. Mix blended puree back into the pot.

Step 4: Serve

Taste your Split Pea Soup; adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with hearty buttered bread on the side. Feel free to garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired! Enjoy!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Serving Split Pea Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enhance this hearty dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves adds an aromatic touch.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the soup’s appearance and flavor.

Accompanied by Bread

• Hearty Buttered Bread: Serve with slices of warm, buttered bread for a comforting meal.
• Crusty Baguette: A crusty baguette pairs wonderfully, perfect for dipping into the soup.

Topped with Crunch

• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add a satisfying crunch.
• Fried Onions: Crispy fried onions offer a delicious texture contrast.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of a Caesar salad balance well with Split Pea Soup.

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How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

Perfecting your Split Pea Soup can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve that comforting bowl of goodness.

• Use Fresh Split Peas: Fresh peas absorb water better and cook faster, ensuring a creamy texture.
• Cook Slowly: A slow simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the peas soften perfectly.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a thick, creamy consistency that enhances the overall experience.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for the best flavor.
• Add Ham at the Right Time: If using leftover ham, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking for optimal flavor without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlicky treat is perfect for mopping up every last drop of soup.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice and veggies add a nutritious touch to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide added color and nutrients alongside your soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette complements the heartiness of Split Pea Soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a crunchy side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using old split peas: Old peas may not soften properly. Always use fresh green split peas for the best texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking.
• Overcooking the soup: Simmering too long can make the peas mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time for a perfect consistency.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending some of the soup creates a creamier texture. Don’t skip this for a rich and satisfying result.
• Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect flavor. Opt for reduced-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock for better taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

• Let it cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in a covered dish, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through, until hot (about 3-5 minutes).
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Split Pea Soup that might help you get started.

Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables for flavor.

What kind of split peas should I use?

Green split peas are commonly used, but yellow split peas can also work well. Both provide a great flavor.

How do I know when split peas are done cooking?

The peas should be soft and thickened; they will break down during cooking. Check at least every 60 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can I add other vegetables to my Split Pea Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add potatoes, bell peppers, or greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Split Pea Soup is not just comforting but also highly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!