Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. This hearty soup showcases the delightful combination of green split peas, tender ham, and fresh vegetables, creating a thick and creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Not only is Split Pea Soup packed with flavor, but it’s also versatile enough to be a main dish or a side. Whether you’re using leftover ham or cooking from scratch, this recipe guarantees warmth and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: Split Pea Soup provides a warm and filling meal that’s perfect for cozy nights.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize your soup by adding more vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing.
- Great for Leftovers: It keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Split Pea Soup, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even cooking without burning your ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
- Blender: Optional but useful for achieving that 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; see note 3; plus more ham if desired)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
For Serving
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Hearty buttered bread
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. 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. Then add garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, red pepper flakes, and cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute. Mix in rinsed split peas.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
Add ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Cook until peas are tender and soup has thickened to your liking.
Step 3: Shred the Ham
When ready to serve, remove ham bone from the soup. Shred off as much meat as you can from it. Discard any bones or fat. Return shredded ham back into the soup (I like about 2 cups; consider adding more if desired). Remove bay leaves.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
Remove about 2 cups of the soup from the pot. Blend until completely smooth using a blender or an immersion blender if you have one. Return this blended puree back into the pot and mix thoroughly.
Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serve
Taste your soup! Adjust seasonings by adding more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle soup into bowls and serve with hearty buttered bread on the side. Enjoy!
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it simple or with a few added touches, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.
With Hearty Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of Split Pea Soup.
- Garlic Bread: The rich flavors of garlic bread complement the soup and add a nice crunch.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combo; the gooey cheese melts beautifully into the soup.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.
- Croutons: Add some homemade croutons for extra texture and crunch.
- Sour Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
With a Salad
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the thick soup.
- Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of Caesar dressing pair well with the comforting soup.
How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
To achieve the best version of Split Pea Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Split Peas: Always use fresh split peas for optimal flavor and texture, as older peas may not soften properly.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup becomes too thick, add more broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor Depth: For deeper flavor, simmer longer, and taste throughout to adjust seasonings as needed.
- Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture while leaving chunks for heartiness.
Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Cheesy Biscuit: Fluffy biscuits topped with cheese make a delightful addition and are perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds both color and nutrition to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that complements the smoothness of the soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside your warm bowl of soup.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can balance out the richness of Split Pea Soup while adding some carbs.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are an excellent pairing that enhances the overall comfort food experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Split Pea Soup can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
-
Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the freshness of your peas and use newer ones for the best results.
-
Neglecting seasoning: A lack of seasoning can make your soup bland. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for a flavorful outcome.
-
Skipping the blending step: If you prefer a creamy texture, don’t skip blending part of the soup. This step adds depth and smoothness, enhancing your overall dish.
-
Ignoring the simmer time: Rushing the cooking process can lead to undercooked peas. Allow enough time for simmering to achieve that perfect thickness and flavor.
-
Not using a meaty bone: Omitting a ham bone or hocks will diminish the flavor profile. The meat adds savory richness, so include it for an authentic taste.
-
Forgetting to stir occasionally: Failing to stir while cooking can cause the peas to catch on the bottom of the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Split Pea Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; remember to leave space for expansion.
Reheating Split Pea Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe pot until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Split Pea Soup:
How long does Split Pea Soup last in the fridge?
Split Pea Soup will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make Split Pea Soup without ham?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Split Pea Soup by omitting ham and adding extra vegetables or smoked paprika for flavor.
What is the best way to thicken Split Pea Soup?
If you want a thicker consistency, blend part of the soup after cooking. You can also let it simmer longer without a lid.
Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Absolutely! Yellow split peas can be used as a substitute; they have a slightly different flavor but will yield delicious results.
Is Split Pea Soup healthy?
Yes! Split Pea Soup is nutritious, packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. It makes for a wholesome meal option that’s low in calories.
Final Thoughts
This Split Pea Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as leftovers, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Experience the heartwarming delight of Split Pea Soup, a classic comfort food that’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. This hearty dish combines green split peas, tender ham, and fresh vegetables to create a thick and creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this soup can stand alone as a main dish or serve as a satisfying side. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting from scratch, this easy recipe promises warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups finely diced onion
- 1 cup finely diced carrots
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1–½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1–½ cups green split peas (rinsed)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 meaty ham bone (or ham hocks)
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper; cook until softened. Stir in garlic and spices for an additional minute.
- Simmer the soup: Add split peas, ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes.
- Shred the ham: Remove the ham bone, shred the meat off it, return it to the pot, and discard bones/fat.
- Blend for creaminess: Remove about 2 cups of soup and blend until smooth; return to pot.
- Final seasoning & serve: Taste your soup, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot with hearty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
