Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Packed with nutritious veggies, hearty split peas, and tender pieces of ham, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with loved ones. Its thick, creamy texture and rich flavor make it a standout dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served on chilly nights or as a delightful lunch option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a deliciously warm taste that everyone will crave.
- Nutrient-Dense: With split peas and vegetables, this soup is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps mean you can prepare this dish without fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: This split pea soup can be customized with different meats or veggies based on your preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make Split Pea Soup successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution, preventing the soup from scorching.
- Blender: Helps achieve a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup if desired.
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, see note 3, 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: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large (5.5 quart or larger) heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions, carrots, celery, and salt/pepper to taste (I suggest starting with about 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Cook until the veggies are softened and the onion starts turning golden brown—about 5–8 minutes. Then add minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about one minute before adding the rinsed split peas.
Step 2: Simmering the Soup
Add the ham bone, bay leaf, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot. Cook until the peas are tender and the soup reaches your desired thickness; stir more frequently as it thickens. If needed, add a splash more broth if it becomes too thick.
Step 3: Final Touches
When ready to serve, remove the ham bone from the soup. Shred off as much meat as possible from the bone before discarding both the bone(s) and any fat. Return shredded ham back into the soup—aiming for about two cups total meat in your mix. Discard bay leaves afterward. For extra creaminess, remove two cups of soup and blend until smooth before returning it to the pot. Taste again for seasoning adjustments; add salt or pepper as needed.
Step 4: Serve Up!
Ladle your delicious Split Pea Soup into bowls. Serve alongside hearty buttered bread for dipping—a sprinkle of fresh thyme adds an elegant touch if desired. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. It’s versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, enhancing its flavors and textures.
With Hearty Buttered Bread
- A classic pairing that adds a crunchy texture. Spread some butter on a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves or parsley over your soup for a burst of color and freshness.
Accompanied by Grilled Cheese
- The gooey, melty cheese complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly—ideal for a cozy meal.
Served with a Side Salad
- A light green salad can balance out the richness of the soup, adding crispness and freshness.
With Pickles or Relish
- Add a tangy side of pickles or relish for an unexpected zesty contrast to the flavors of the soup.
As Part of a Cozy Brunch
- Serve your Split Pea Soup alongside other brunch favorites like quiches or frittatas for a comforting spread.
How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
Making the perfect Split Pea Soup involves some careful considerations. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:
- Choose Fresh Split Peas: Fresh peas soften better during cooking and give you that desired creamy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Ham Bone: Using a ham bone adds depth and flavor that elevates your soup to another level.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more broth gradually until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Flavor Balance: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices based on your personal preferences for optimal flavor.
- Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup before mixing it back in.
- Cool Before Storing: If you plan to store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
Pairing sides with your Split Pea Soup can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some delicious suggestions:
-
Crusty Baguette
A fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and soaking up every last drop. -
Caesar Salad
The crisp romaine lettuce and rich dressing provide a nice contrast to the hearty soup. -
Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the rich flavors of split peas. -
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavor and nutrition, making your meal even healthier. -
Cornbread Muffins
Slightly sweet cornbread muffins are delightful when paired with savory split pea soup. -
Potato Wedges
Crispy potato wedges make an excellent side with their satisfying crunch alongside smooth soup. -
Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer both nutrition and vibrant presentation. -
Spinach Feta Puff Pastry
Flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta provides an elegant touch to your meal while being easy to prepare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Split Pea Soup can be a simple and rewarding experience, but there are common missteps that can lead to disappointing results.
- Using Old Split Peas: Old or stale split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the package date and use fresh split peas for the best texture.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long at the start can lead to mushy soup. Sauté just until they start to soften, about 5-8 minutes.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and spices as needed for maximum flavor.
- Not Blending Properly: Skipping the blending step can result in a chunky texture instead of creamy. Blend at least a portion of the soup for that classic thickness.
- Ignoring Storage Tips: Not storing your leftovers correctly can spoil your soup quickly. Follow proper refrigeration or freezing guidelines to extend its life.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 5 days.
Freezing Split Pea Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Split Pea Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Split Pea Soup.
What are the best types of split peas for soup?
Green split peas are commonly used, but yellow split peas also work well. Both types yield a delicious and creamy texture.
Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
How do I know when my split peas are done cooking?
The split peas should be soft and break apart easily when cooked properly. The soup will also thicken significantly.
Can I add other vegetables to my Split Pea Soup?
Absolutely! Try adding potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
How do I store leftover Split Pea Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Split Pea Soup is not only comforting and hearty but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. It’s perfect for using up leftovers, especially after holiday meals with ham!
Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 portions 1x
Description
Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a warm embrace in every spoonful. This hearty dish features tender split peas, nutritious vegetables, and savory ham, creating a thick, creamy texture that’s both satisfying and healthy. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this simple yet flavorful soup is easy to prepare and even better as leftovers. Customize it with your favorite meats or vegetables for a delightful twist. Serve it alongside crusty bread and fresh herbs for an extra touch of warmth.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups finely diced onion
- 1 cup finely diced carrot
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 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)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 meaty ham bone
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper; cook until softened (5–8 minutes). Stir in garlic and spices.
- Add split peas, ham bone, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes or until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone, shred off meat, and return to the soup. Optionally blend part of the soup for creaminess.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs and crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
