As the chill of autumn settles in and cozy evenings beckon, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of split pea soup to comfort the soul. I can still recall the delightful aroma spilling from my grandmother’s kitchen, where she lovingly simmered this classic dish that turned humble ingredients into pure magic. The soothing blend of tender split peas and savory ham creates a symphony of flavors that warms you from the inside out.
This split pea soup recipe is perfect for those days when you crave something nourishing yet simple to prepare. With a delightful mix of sautéed vegetables, rich broth, and spices, it’s a meal that elevates any gathering or even a quiet night in. Best of all, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Join me in bringing this beloved comfort food to your table, and let the essence of home cooking wrap around you like a warm blanket on a chilly night.
Why is this split pea soup recipe a must-try?
Comforting Aroma: The inviting smell of simmering ham and vegetables fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Nutrient-Rich Delight: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is nourishment in a bowl, perfect for cold evenings.
Quick to Prep: With no pre-soaking required, you can whip up this hearty meal in just over an hour.
Versatile Ingredient Options: Feel free to customize with leftover ham, or even switch to a vegetarian version with smoked turkey leg.
Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it to family and friends, and watch everyone come back for seconds—it’s that delicious!
Embrace the comforting charm of this recipe and transform your mealtime with a download of our easy guide on homemade broths to elevate the flavor profile!
Split Pea Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in sautéing vegetables; substitute with butter for a richer flavor.
• Onion (1 medium, diced) – Enhances sweetness and flavor base; any onion variety can work, though red onion may alter color.
• Carrots (3, diced) – Introduces sweetness and texture; can substitute with parsnips for a different sweetness profile.
• Celery (3 ribs, diced) – Adds crunch and earthiness; optional to replace with leeks for a deeper flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Contributes strong aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can be a last-minute substitute.
• Dried Split Peas (1 pound, rinsed) – The main component providing bulk and protein; do not substitute with fresh peas.
• Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor with herbal notes; omit or reduce if you prefer a milder taste.
• Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon) – Seasoning to enhance flavor; adjust based on broth saltiness.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Provides mild spice; freshly ground pepper is preferred for optimal flavor.
• Bay Leaf (1) – Infuses a complex, savory aroma; be sure to discard before serving.
For the Flavor Boost
• Ham Bone (1, meaty) – Essential for rich flavor; fresh ham or a smoked turkey leg can be used as an alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Forms the soup base; vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version.
• Water (3 to 4 cups) – Controls soup thickness; adjust as needed.
• Diced Ham (1 cup) – Adds texture and protein; you can also use leftover ham from a cooked holiday dish.
For the Finishing Touch
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise; feel free to omit if unavailable.
This split pea soup recipe is not just warming for the body, but also for the soul.
How to Make Split Pea Soup
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. This creates a flavorful base for the vegetables, ensuring they sauté beautifully.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until they become soft and fragrant. Watching them soften will give you hints of the delicious soup to come!
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Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. Once you smell that delightful aroma, you know it’s time for the next step!
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Incorporate the Split Peas: Stir in the rinsed split peas, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together, ensuring the peas are well-coated.
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Add Liquids and Bone: Pour in the bay leaf, ham bone, chicken broth, and 3 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the peas to become tender and creamy.
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Remove and Chop Ham: Once the split peas are softened, carefully remove the ham bone. Dice up any remaining ham and return it to the pot, mixing for an even distribution of flavors.
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Simmer and Adjust: Simmer uncovered for 5-15 minutes, adjusting the thickness with more water if necessary. You’re aiming for that comforting, hearty soup consistency!
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Final Touch: Discard the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle with black pepper for a touch of brightness.
Optional: Enjoy with crusty bread or cornbread for a truly comforting meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Classic Comfort Split Pea Soup with Ham?
Warm, hearty, and richly flavored, this split pea soup is a feast for the senses that beautifully complements delicious sides.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crispy exterior and fluffy interior elevate each spoonful of soup.
- Cornbread: Its slightly sweet flavor and light texture add a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies enhance the dish’s depth, offering both color and extra nutrition to your meal.
- Greens Salad: A lightly dressed salad of mixed greens provides a refreshing balance, brightening up each bite with crunch and zest.
Pairing a satisfying soup with a vibrant salad can invigorate the dining experience. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing boost!
- Homemade Biscuits: Flaky and buttery biscuits invite you to slather with butter, making each bite a comforting indulgence next to your soup.
- Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert; its comforting spices will mirror the cozy flavors in your soup.
- Chardonnay: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay enhances the meal’s heartiness, harmonizing well with the savory flavors of the soup.
Indulging in these pairings ensures a delicious and memorable dining experience, inviting you to savor warm moments with good food and great company!
How to Store and Freeze Split Pea Soup
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion when freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Portions: Consider freezing in individual portions, making it even easier to enjoy this hearty split pea soup on busy nights!
Make Ahead Options
This split pea soup recipe is incredibly convenient for meal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can rinse the split peas and keep them in an airtight container for the same duration, ensuring they stay fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the prepped ingredients as directed and add the remaining components for a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if made from scratch. This thoughtful prep saves you time and delivers a hearty soup with all the flavors you love!
Expert Tips for Split Pea Soup
- No Pre-Soaking Needed: Split peas don’t require soaking, simplifying your preparation and ensuring a quicker cooking time.
- Adjust Salting Accurately: If you’re using regular chicken broth, decrease added salt to avoid an overly salty soup.
- Texture Control: For a smoother split pea soup, consider using an immersion blender, but leave some chunks for a hearty feel.
- Thickening Over Time: Remember that the soup thickens as it sits; add extra water before serving to reach your desired consistency.
- Ham Substitutions: Leftover ham is perfect for this recipe, but if you prefer a different flavor, try smoked turkey leg as a flavorful alternative.
Split Pea Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this comforting soup recipe to fit your taste!
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth for a wholesome meat-free version.
- Creamy Twist: Blend half of the soup in a blender for a velvety texture while leaving some hearty pieces intact.
- Spice It Up: Add a touch of cumin or crushed red pepper to turn up the heat and add depth to the flavor profile.
- Herb Boost: Enhance the taste with fresh herbs like dill or sage towards the end of cooking for a fragrant infusion.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for additional heartiness and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Smoky Flavor: Swap the ham for a smoked sausage or bacon for a delicious twist on this classic comfort dish.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds, for a surprising crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
- Zesty Finish: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors beautifully.
Your split pea soup can easily become a canvas for delicious variations; enjoy experimenting to find your favorite!
Classic Comfort Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right split peas?
When selecting split peas, look for vibrant green or yellow peas that are free from any dark spots or blemishes. Make sure they’re whole instead of broken for the best texture in your soup. Always check the expiration date on the packaging to ensure freshness!
What’s the best way to store leftover split pea soup?
Refrigerate your leftover split pea soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure the soup cools down to room temperature before sealing it. This will help maintain its flavors and prevent spoilage.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What if my soup is too thick?
If your split pea soup turns out thicker than you’d like, no worries! Just add a splash of water or broth while slowly reheating it on the stove. Stir well until you achieve your preferred consistency. Remember, it’s all about making it just right for your taste!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
You can easily adapt the split pea soup recipe to be vegetarian-friendly! Simply omit the ham bone and ham, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables or spices to enhance the flavor profile.
Are there any common allergies I should consider?
This split pea soup recipe is naturally gluten-free and nut-free. However, if you’re serving guests or family with specific dietary restrictions, always check labels on your broth and any added ingredients. For those with legume allergies, split peas would not be suitable.
Savory Split Pea Soup Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Food
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and helps in sautéing vegetables; substitute with butter for a richer flavor.
- 1 medium Onion, diced Enhances sweetness and flavor base; any onion variety can work, though red onion may alter color.
- 3 pieces Carrots, diced Introduces sweetness and texture; can substitute with parsnips.
- 3 ribs Celery, diced Adds crunch and earthiness; optional to replace with leeks.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Contributes strong aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended.
- 1 pound Dried Split Peas, rinsed The main component providing bulk and protein; do not substitute with fresh peas.
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried Thyme Enhances overall flavor; omit or reduce for a milder taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt Seasoning to enhance flavor; adjust based on broth saltiness.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Provides mild spice; freshly ground pepper is preferred.
- 1 piece Bay Leaf Infuses a complex, savory aroma; be sure to discard before serving.
For the Flavor Boost
- 1 bone Ham Bone, meaty Essential for rich flavor; fresh ham or smoked turkey leg can be used.
- 4 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Forms the soup base; vegetable broth is a great substitute.
- 3 to 4 cups Water Controls soup thickness; adjust as needed.
- 1 cup Diced Ham Adds texture and protein; use leftover ham as needed.
For the Finishing Touch
- Fresh Parsley Garnish to brighten the dish; omit if unavailable.
Instructions
How to Make Split Pea Soup
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and let it warm up.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until they become soft.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute.
- Incorporate the Split Peas: Stir in the rinsed split peas, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Add Liquids and Bone: Pour in the bay leaf, ham bone, chicken broth, and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil and simmer.
- Remove and Chop Ham: Once the split peas are softened, carefully remove the ham bone. Dice any remaining ham.
- Simmer and Adjust: Simmer uncovered for 5-15 minutes, adjusting consistency with more water if necessary.
- Final Touch: Discard the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley.