How to Create Hearty Split Pea and Ham Soup: A Simple Guide
Split pea and ham soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or anytime you crave something warm and filling. This hearty, protein-packed soup is delicious, nutritious, and surprisingly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a pot of homemade goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s jump right in!
Why Split Pea and Ham Soup Is a Winner
Split pea and ham soup is a star dish for several reasons. First, it’s packed with flavor—earthy split peas pair perfectly with smoky ham. Second, it’s a budget-friendly option because you can use leftover ham or even a ham bone for flavor. Third, it’s nutritious! Split peas are loaded with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making this soup as healthy as it is tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best thing about split pea and ham soup is that it doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450g) split peas (green peas work best, but you can use yellow if you prefer)
- 1 ham bone or 1-2 cups diced ham (leftover ham adds extra flavor!)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6-8 cups chicken broth or water (you can use a mix of both)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins:
– Potatoes (for extra thickness)
– Herbs like parsley (for garnish)
Split peas don’t need to be soaked ahead of time, so you can make this soup without much prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather and chop all your vegetables: onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. If you’re using a ham bone, make sure it’s trimmed of excess fat.
Step 2: Start Cooking the Base
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil or a knob of butter, then toss in your onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften. This step will create a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 3: Add the Split Peas and Ham
Stir the rinsed split peas into the pot, followed by your ham bone (or diced ham). The ham bone adds a smoky, rich flavor to the soup, while the split peas give it the hearty texture we’re looking for.
Step 4: Pour in the Liquid
Pour in your chicken broth or water, ensuring the ingredients are fully covered. Add the bay leaves and thyme if you’re using them. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Simmer the soup for about 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally. The split peas will soften and break down over time, creating a creamy texture. If you’re using a ham bone, scoop it out when the soup is cooked and shred any meat off the bone to return to the pot.
Keep an eye on the liquid level as the soup thickens—you may need to add a little water or broth if it gets too thick.
Step 6: Season and Taste
Once the peas have fully softened and the soup has a creamy consistency, taste it and add salt and pepper as needed. Be careful with salt, as ham and chicken broth are often salty to begin with.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for an even heartier meal. It’s warm, smoky, and absolutely delicious!
Tips for Success
- Use a ham bone for extra flavor: The ham bone releases natural flavors and adds richness to the soup. If you don’t have one, diced ham works perfectly too.
- Make it vegetarian: If you want a meat-free option, skip the ham and ham bone, and add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Store leftovers: Split pea and ham soup gets even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.
- Adjust the texture: If you like a chunky soup, leave it as-is. For a smoother consistency, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This split pea and ham soup is the ultimate feel-good meal. It’s loaded with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied, and it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.
So gather your ingredients, put on some cozy music, and get ready to create a bowl of warmth and comfort. Once you try this hearty homemade soup, you’ll never go back to canned versions again. Happy cooking!
