Split Pea Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and fills the belly. This thick and creamy soup combines the earthy flavors of split peas with tender ham and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a hearty lunch, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends. With its nutritious ingredients and rich taste, Split Pea Soup stands out as a comforting classic that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with veggies, fiber-rich split peas, and lean protein from ham, this soup is as healthy as it is satisfying.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this comforting soup without any fuss.
Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover ham or adjust the vegetables based on what you have at home; it’s customizable to your taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup freezes well, making it ideal for batch cooking. Enjoy it anytime during chilly months!
Kid-Friendly Flavor: The creamy texture and savory taste make it appealing not just for adults but also for kids.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Split Pea Soup, having the right tools can simplify the process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle
Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Large heavy-bottomed pot: This distributes heat evenly, preventing the split peas from sticking or burning.
Blender: Ideal for pureeing part of the soup, giving it a smooth consistency that enhances flavor.

Ingredients

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

Vegetables

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)

Seasonings

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

Main Ingredients

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

Garnish

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 the diced onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion begins to turn golden; this should take about 5–8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute before adding rinsed split peas.

Step 2: Simmering the Soup

Add your ham bone or hocks along with bay leaves and chicken broth into the pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally so that the peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. The goal is to cook until the split peas are soft and your soup has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Shred Ham & Blend Soup

Once ready to serve, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred as much meat as you can from it before discarding any bones or fat. Return shredded ham back into your soup; you might want about 2 cups total. If necessary, add additional chopped ham at this stage. Discard bay leaves afterward.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about 2 cups of your soup mixture from the pot into a blender. Puree until completely smooth before returning this blended mix back into your pot. Stir thoroughly until combined. Taste your soup one last time—add more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve immediately alongside hearty buttered bread. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves if you like! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Split Pea Soup!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Serving Split Pea Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious ideas to complement this hearty dish.

Classic Accompaniments

Hearty Bread: Serve with thick slices of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Crackers: A side of crunchy crackers adds a nice texture contrast to the smoothness of the soup.

Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Thyme Leaves: Add fresh thyme leaves just before serving for an aromatic flavor boost.

Garnishes

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and tang.
Cheese: Grated cheese, like cheddar, can be sprinkled on top for added richness.

Side Salads

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the meal’s heaviness.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the soup.

How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

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

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality ham to enhance flavor.
Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps develop a richer taste and creamier texture.
Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a velvety consistency while retaining some whole peas.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as necessary to bring out flavors.
Add Extra Veggies: Incorporating additional vegetables like potatoes or spinach can boost nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup enhances the meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup’s rich broth.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the soup’s texture while adding crunch from croutons.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your dinner table.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes provide a comforting side that matches the warmth of split pea soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make a wholesome, filling option.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing can offer a refreshing contrast to the heavy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Split Pea Soup, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

Ignoring the soak time – Not soaking split peas can lead to longer cooking times and uneven texture. Always soak your peas for a few hours or overnight to ensure they cook evenly.
Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking vegetables too long can result in mushy soup. Sauté them just until they’re softened but still retain some structure.
Using old split peas – Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the date on your packaging and use fresh peas for the best results.
Neglecting seasoning – Forgetting to season during cooking can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper gradually for balanced flavor.
Not blending enough – If you prefer a creamier texture, don’t skip blending part of the soup. This step adds richness and thickens the consistency beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooled Split Pea Soup in an airtight container.
It can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storing.
The soup freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring often.
Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Split Pea Soup that may help enhance your cooking experience.

How do I make vegetarian Split Pea Soup?

You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the ham bone. Add extra vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms for added flavor.

Can I use dried split peas instead of canned?

Yes! Dried split peas are recommended as they provide better texture and flavor compared to canned options.

What is the best way to thicken Split Pea Soup?

If your soup is too thin, simply blend a portion of it until smooth and return it back to the pot. This will naturally thicken your soup.

Can I add other meats to my Split Pea Soup?

Absolutely! You can mix in leftover turkey or bacon if you prefer different flavors alongside ham.

How long does it take to cook Split Pea Soup in a slow cooker?

In a slow cooker, cook on low for approximately 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until peas are tender.

Final Thoughts

Split Pea Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different meats or veggies according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you’ll enjoy its rich flavors and satisfying texture!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Split Pea Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the hearty essence of split peas with tender ham and a mix of fresh vegetables. This creamy, thick soup is perfect for cozy dinners or filling lunches, providing warmth and flavor in every spoonful. With nutritious ingredients packed into this delightful dish, you’ll impress your family and friends while enjoying a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re using leftover ham or experimenting with different veggies, this versatile recipe allows you to customize it according to your taste. Dive into a bowl of Split Pea Soup today and experience why it’s a beloved classic!

Ingredients

Scale

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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper; sauté until softened (about 5–8 minutes). Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.
Add split peas, ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat; let it simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes until peas are soft.
Remove the ham bone; shred any meat back into the soup. Discard bones and bay leaves.
Blend about two cups of soup until smooth and return it to the pot for a creamier texture.
Serve hot with hearty bread and optional garnishes like fresh thyme.

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