Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables, and tender pieces of ham, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or a hearty lunch. It’s not only delicious but also customizable, making it suitable for various occasions—from family dinners to potluck gatherings. You’ll love how this humble dish transforms into something special with just a few simple ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber and protein, Split Pea Soup keeps you satisfied while being healthy.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover ham or switch out veggies based on what you have on hand—this soup adapts to your pantry!
Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later; it retains its flavor beautifully.
Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and smoky ham creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process and ensure your Split Pea Soup turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Large heavy-bottomed pot: This tool ensures even heat distribution, preventing the soup from scorching on the bottom.
Blender: If you prefer a smooth consistency in your soup, a blender will help achieve that silky texture easily.

Ingredients

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

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. 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.

Step 2: Add Spices and Split Peas

Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, and cook while stirring constantly for about one minute. Then add rinsed split peas into the mix.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Ham

Add the ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth into the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so the peas don’t stick to the bottom of the pot until they are cooked through.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

When ready to serve, remove the ham bone. Shred off as much meat as possible. Discard any bones or fat. Return shredded ham back into the soup. Remove bay leaves. Take out two cups of soup and blend until smooth before returning it back to the pot.

Step 5: Serve

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve with hearty buttered bread alongside a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a cozy lunch, presenting it well can enhance the experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Hearty Buttered Bread

Pairing your soup with slices of hearty buttered bread adds texture and richness. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves gives a burst of freshness. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely touch to the presentation.

Drizzle of Olive Oil

A light drizzle of olive oil on top before serving can add an extra layer of flavor and a glossy finish, making your dish look more appealing.

Serve with Crusty Rolls

Accompanying your soup with crusty rolls creates a satisfying meal. These can be used to scoop up the soup or enjoyed on the side.

Sprinkle of Cracked Pepper

A dash of cracked pepper on top boosts the flavor profile. It also provides a bit of spice that complements the soup nicely.

Garnish with Shredded Ham

For added protein and taste, consider garnishing your bowl with some shredded ham. This makes it even heartier and more filling.

How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

Perfecting your Split Pea Soup takes just a few simple tips. Here’s how you can ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

Use fresh split peas: Fresh split peas cook better and achieve a creamier texture compared to older ones.
Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper gradually for balanced flavor.
Blend for creaminess: For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup before serving; this thickens it beautifully.
Add extra veggies: Consider adding more vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
Simmer longer for depth: Allowing the soup to simmer longer brings out deeper flavors; just stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Store properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; it’ll taste even better as flavors meld.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing side dishes with Split Pea Soup can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with Split Pea Soup, offering gooey cheese and crunchy bread.
Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients, complementing the flavors of the soup beautifully.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are delightful alongside savory soups, adding sweetness and texture.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for an excellent side that is both nutritious and filling.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer crunch and pair well with creamy soups like Split Pea.
Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy cheese biscuits bring warmth and richness, making them a perfect companion to your meal.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette balances out the heaviness of the soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can impact the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

Using old split peas – Old split peas may not soften properly, leading to a gritty texture. Always check the packaging date and opt for fresh peas.
Overcooking vegetables – Cooking vegetables for too long can result in mushiness. Sauté just until they are softened and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
Neglecting seasoning – Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Not blending enough – Leaving the soup unblended can lead to a watery texture. Blend a portion to create a creamy consistency, then mix it back in.
Skipping the ham bone – The ham bone adds depth of flavor. If you don’t have one, consider using smoked meat or liquid smoke for a similar effect.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Split Pea Soup in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

Place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot (about 2-4 minutes).
Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Split Pea Soup:

How do I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

You can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ham bone and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?

Yes, yellow split peas work well as a substitute. They have a slightly different flavor but will still produce a delicious soup.

How long does it take to cook Split Pea Soup?

Typically, it takes about 60-90 minutes of simmering to achieve the desired thickness and tenderness of the peas.

Can I add other vegetables to my Split Pea Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Split Pea Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different veggies or herbs according to your taste preferences. Whether served as a hearty dinner or enjoyed as leftovers, this recipe is sure to bring joy and warmth to your table. Don’t hesitate to try it out!

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Split Pea Soup

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food that envelops you in warmth and flavor. This hearty dish features a creamy texture, vibrant vegetables, and tender ham, making it ideal for chilly evenings or a fulfilling lunch. With its nutritious profile packed with fiber and protein, it’s a meal that satisfies without compromising health. This recipe is easily customizable, allowing you to adapt it to your pantry staples, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or potlucks. Plus, it freezes beautifully for quick meals later!

Ingredients

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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
1.5 cups green split peas (rinsed)
8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 meaty ham bone

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and spices; cook for one minute before adding split peas.
Add the ham bone and chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 60–90 minutes.
Remove the ham bone, shred any meat back into the soup, blend a portion for creaminess if desired.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot with crusty bread.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American