Imagine a steaming bowl of split pea and ham soup, the aroma wafting through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Each spoonful offers a delightful blend of creamy textures and smoky flavors, making it the perfect companion for cozy evenings or family gatherings when everyone needs a little comfort.
This recipe takes me back to childhood memories of rainy afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter mingled with the scent of simmering soup. Whether it’s a cold winter night or simply a day when you need some culinary cheer, this split pea and ham soup is sure to wrap you in nostalgia while tantalizing your taste buds with its hearty goodness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Whipping up this split pea and ham soup is as easy as finding your favorite sweatpants on a lazy Sunday
- Bursting with rich, smoky flavors and a hint of sweetness, every spoonful feels like a warm hug
- Its beautiful green hue adds a pop of color that could make even the grumpiest vegetable smile
- Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or transforming leftovers into an epic casserole, this soup knows how to adapt
I still remember my son’s delighted face when he first tasted my split pea and ham soup on a chilly evening.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious split pea and ham soup:
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Split Peas: Use green or yellow split peas; both varieties work well and provide a hearty texture
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Ham Hock: A smoked ham hock adds rich flavor; look for one with a good amount of meat on it
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Carrots: Fresh, diced carrots bring natural sweetness; choose vibrant, firm carrots for the best taste
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Celery: Opt for crisp celery stalks to add crunch and aromatic flavor to your soup
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Onion: Yellow onions are ideal for this recipe; they caramelize beautifully and deepen the overall flavor
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the savory notes; use 3-4 cloves, minced, for a robust taste
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Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth allows you to control the saltiness while adding depth of flavor
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Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves infuse the soup with earthy undertones; remember to remove them before serving
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Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances flavors nicely; adjust the amount based on your spice preference
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Salt: Add salt gradually during cooking to avoid over-seasoning; taste as you go for best results
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling your ingredients for the split pea and ham soup. You will need dried split peas, diced ham, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and broth. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma, about 5 minutes.
Add the Peas and Ham: Stir in the rinsed split peas along with the diced ham. This is where the magic begins! The combination of flavors will infuse as they cook together.
Pour in the Broth: Add enough chicken or vegetable broth to cover the ingredients by about an inch. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil; then reduce heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 45 minutes.
Check for Consistency: After simmering, check the texture of your soup. If you desire a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to puree part of it while leaving some chunks for that hearty feel.
Season and Serve: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious homemade split pea and ham soup!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Rinse the split peas thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris for a cleaner flavor
- Use a ham hock or bone for added depth; it infuses the soup with rich, savory notes
- Let the soup simmer longer for creamier texture; flavors deepen and meld beautifully over time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make a delicious split pea and ham soup, start by sautéing chopped onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot for about 5 minutes. Next, add diced ham and cook for another 3 minutes. Then, stir in split peas, broth, and seasonings before simmering for 60 to 90 minutes until tender.
Add Your Touch
Get creative with your split pea and ham soup! Swap out the ham for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a lighter version. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or thyme to enhance the flavor. Throw in diced carrots or potatoes for extra texture and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Allow your split pea and ham soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
FAQ
What ingredients are needed for split pea and ham soup?
You will need split peas, ham, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and broth.
How long does it take to cook split pea and ham soup?
Cooking split pea and ham soup typically takes about one to two hours.
Can I freeze leftover split pea and ham soup?
Yes, leftover split pea and ham soup can be frozen for up to three months.
Split Pea and Ham Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Gather your ingredients for the split pea and ham soup.
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the rinsed split peas along with the diced ham.
- Add enough vegetable broth to cover the ingredients by about an inch. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes.
- Check the texture of your soup. If desired, use an immersion blender to puree part of it for a creamier consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
