Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that warms the soul. This hearty soup combines split peas, fresh vegetables, and savory ham, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to meal prep for the week—this recipe ensures you’ll have a flavorful bowl ready to enjoy.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Split Pea Soup
• Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 2: Simmer the Soup
• Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
• Step 4: Serve Your Delicious Soup
• How to Serve Split Pea Soup
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• With Cheese
• With Extra Protein
• 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
• How long does Split Pea Soup last?
• Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
• What type of split peas are best for Split Pea Soup?
• Can I use a slow cooker for Split Pea Soup?
• How do I customize my Split Pea Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this split pea soup can be made by cooks of all skill levels.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of herbs, spices, and ham infuses the soup with rich flavors that will impress everyone at your table.
• Versatile: Customize your split pea soup by adding different vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Comfort Food: High in fiber and protein, this soup is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it a great option for a wholesome meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking and enjoying later.

Tools and Preparation

To make Split Pea Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: This ensures even heating, preventing the soup from scorching as it simmers.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.
• Ladle: A ladle is perfect for serving the soup without spills.

Ingredients

Split Pea Soup is thick, creamy, and packed with veggies, split peas, and tender ham—humble-looking but bursting with flavor!

Ingredients:
– 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 finely diced onion, carrot, celery, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion turns golden—about 5–8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute while stirring constantly. Finally, add rinsed split peas and mix thoroughly.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add the meaty ham bone or ham hocks along with bay leaves and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Reduce heat to low and allow it to simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the peas don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the peas are soft and the soup has thickened to your liking. If it becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a splash more broth.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

Once cooked through, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred any meat off of it before discarding both bone(s) and fat. Return shredded ham back into the soup—aim for about two cups total. Discard bay leaves as well. Remove two cups of soup from the pot and blend until smooth before returning it back into the pot for added creaminess.

Step 4: Serve Your Delicious Soup

Ladle your hearty split pea soup into bowls while serving with buttered bread on the side. You can sprinkle some black pepper on top or garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enhance your meal with a variety of sides and toppings that complement its rich flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – The tanginess of sourdough pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup.
• Garlic Bread – Adds a delightful crunch and flavor, making each bite more enjoyable.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves – Enhance the aromatic profile with a few leaves for added freshness.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – A sprinkle on top adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the soup well.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar gives a creamy richness that enhances every spoonful.

With Extra Protein

• Cooked Ham Chunks – Adding more ham provides texture and deepens the savory flavor.
• Bacon Bits – Crispy bacon bits add a smoky crunch for an extra layer of taste.

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How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

To make your Split Pea Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Split Peas – Older split peas may not soften properly during cooking, resulting in a gritty texture.
• Don’t Skip the Ham Bone – The bone adds rich flavor as it simmers, making your soup even tastier.
• Adjust Consistency – Feel free to add more broth for a thinner soup or let it simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
• Blend for Creaminess – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without needing heavy cream.
• Taste Before Serving – Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing your Split Pea Soup with satisfying side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crusty Baguette – Perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
2. Simple Green Salad – A fresh salad with light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color, flavor, and nutrition to your meal.
4. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
5. Cheese Toasts – Melty cheese on toast makes for an indulgent side that pairs well with any soup.
6. Pickles or Relish Tray – The acidity from pickles cuts through the creaminess of the soup, offering a refreshing bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but certain mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften during cooking. Always check for freshness and use new ones for the best results.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance flavor.
• Skipping the blending step: Leaving all the soup chunky can lead to an uneven texture. Blending part of the soup creates a creamy consistency that is more enjoyable.
• Ignoring simmer time: Cooking for too short a time can yield undercooked peas. Allow the soup to simmer long enough for the peas to break down and thicken.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can affect cooking time and texture. Follow the recipe closely for optimal results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Split Pea Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Split Pea Soup last?

Split Pea Soup lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. For longer storage, freeze it.

Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

What type of split peas are best for Split Pea Soup?

Green or yellow split peas work well. Both varieties will yield a tasty soup, so choose based on your preference.

Can I use a slow cooker for Split Pea Soup?

Absolutely! You can cook Split Pea Soup in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I customize my Split Pea Soup?

Feel free to add other veggies like potatoes or tomatoes, or try different herbs and spices to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

This Split Pea Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. It’s perfect for using leftover ham or experimenting with different vegetables. Enjoy creating this delicious dish in your kitchen!