Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul with its thick, creamy texture and hearty flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup stands out as a beloved choice. Packed with nutritious veggies, split peas, and savory ham, it’s both delicious and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to meal prep for the week ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: Split Pea Soup offers a hearty meal packed with protein and fiber, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll find this recipe straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup with leftover ham or add extra veggies based on what you have at home.
- Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for busy days or easy lunches.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and the richness of ham create a flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started with your Split Pea Soup, gather your essential tools to make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing the soup from burning on the bottom.
- Blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup for a smooth consistency.
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)
Seasoning and Spices
- 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
Optional Garnishes
- 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 finely diced onion, carrot, celery, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion begins to turn golden brown—about 5 to 8 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute before adding in the rinsed split peas.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Simmer
Next, add the ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth into the pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the split peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Cook until the peas are soft and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
Once ready to serve, carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred off as much meat as you can from it before discarding any bones or fat. Return shredded ham back into your soup—aim for about 2 cups of meat. Remove and discard bay leaves. If you prefer a creamier texture, remove about 2 cups of soup from the pot. Blend until completely smooth before returning it back to mix through.
Step 4: Serve Your Delicious Soup
Ladle your rich Split Pea Soup into bowls. Serve hot with hearty buttered bread on the side along with a sprinkle of pepper and fresh thyme if using. Enjoy!
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Serving Split Pea Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavor and texture.
With Fresh Herbs
- Thyme or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh thyme or parsley on top for an aromatic touch.
- Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
With Bread
- Hearty Buttered Bread: A slice of warm, buttered bread complements the creaminess of the soup.
- Crusty Baguette: Serve with a crusty baguette for dipping into the thick soup.
With Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Cheddar Croutons: Add cheddar cheese croutons for a crunchy texture and cheesy goodness.
With Spicy Kick
- Hot Sauce: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their soup.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Provide red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat directly in the bowl.
How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
Creating the perfect Split Pea Soup involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ham make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Rinse the Split Peas: Rinsing ensures any debris is removed, leading to a cleaner taste in your soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup gets too thick, add a splash of broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking enhances flavors as they meld together.
- Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without needing heavy cream.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking to find the perfect balance of flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
Pairing sides with your Split Pea Soup can enhance its comforting nature. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the savory soup.
- Salad Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Stuffed Pita Pockets: Fill pita pockets with fresh veggies or leftover ham for a fun twist.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of split pea soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a nutritious addition that complements every bite.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch alongside this creamy soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Split Pea Soup even more delicious and flavorful.
- Using old peas: Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the expiration date and use fresh split peas for the best results.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your soup adequately can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you cook, and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Skipping the blending step: Not blending part of the soup may result in a less creamy texture. For a thicker soup, blend a portion to achieve that smooth consistency.
- Cooking at too high a heat: Cooking on high heat can cause the soup to stick and burn. Always simmer over low heat for an even cook and to prevent burning.
- Not using enough broth: Insufficient liquid can lead to overly thick soup. Add more broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before placing it in the fridge.
Freezing Split Pea Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Split Pea Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), pour into an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30-40 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for about 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Split Pea Soup made from?
Split Pea Soup is made from green split peas, vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, and often includes ham or a ham bone for flavor.
How long does it take to cook Split Pea Soup?
Cooking time varies but usually takes about 60-90 minutes on low heat after bringing the mixture to a boil.
Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham or meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty vegetarian option.
What can I serve with Split Pea Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with hearty buttered bread or crusty rolls that complement its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Split Pea Soup recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting dinner or as part of meal prep, it’s sure to warm your heart!
Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the warm, creamy delight of Split Pea Soup, a beloved comfort food perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. This hearty dish is brimming with nutritious vegetables, tender split peas, and savory ham, creating a satisfying meal that’s as delicious as it is wholesome. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe allows for customization based on leftovers or seasonal veggies. With its rich flavor profile and easy preparation method, you can enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups diced onion
- 1 cup diced carrot
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1–1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 meaty ham bone (or hocks)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1–1/2 cups green split peas
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 and spices; cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ham bone and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes until peas are soft.
- Remove the ham bone, shred off any meat, and return it to the soup. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before mixing back in.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs or buttered bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
