Split Pea Soup with ham is a wonderful comfort food that warms the soul. This classic recipe simmers green split peas with a ham bone, vegetables, and herbs, creating a thick and creamy soup that’s deeply flavorful. Perfect for chilly days, it offers a taste of nostalgia while being easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how to make this hearty dish!

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup with

This Split Pea Soup Recipe is not only delicious but also packed with benefits. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Hearty and filling, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Rich in nutritional benefits of split pea soup like fiber and protein.
Simple ingredients make it accessible for easy split pea soup for beginners.
Flexibility with variations like split pea soup with bacon or vegan split pea soup recipe.
Low in calories while being rich in flavor, making it a healthy split pea soup idea.
Great for meal prep, saving time during busy weeks.

Ingredients for Split Pea Soup with

Gather these items:

1 lb green split peas (rinsed)
1 ham bone (with some meat attached)
1 cup diced ham (optional)
1 onion (chopped)
2 carrots (diced)
2 celery stalks (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
0.5 tsp black pepper
8 cups chicken broth (or water)
1 tbsp olive oil
smoked paprika (pinch)
cayenne pepper (optional)
fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Split Pea Soup with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes.
Step 2: Add garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and pepper; cook 1 minute.
Step 3: Add split peas and place ham bone into the pot.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth or water to cover ingredients.
Step 5: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Remove ham bone, strip remaining meat, and return meat to soup.
Step 7: Adjust consistency with more broth if needed and simmer until desired thickness.
Step 8: Serve warm with parsley or diced ham on top.

Split Pea Soup with Ham: 7 Hearty Comfort Food Secrets - Split Pea Soup with - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup with

Keep these in mind:

For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
Use a slow cooker for a hands-off approach; just set it and forget it.
Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Split Pea Soup with

Here are some ideas:

Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a fresh salad for a light side.
Top with croutons for added crunch and texture.

How to Store and Reheat Split Pea Soup with

To store, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Soup with

What’s the secret to perfect Split Pea Soup with?

The secret lies in the simmering time. Allow the soup to cook long enough for the flavors to meld and the peas to become creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust seasoning before serving.

Can I make Split Pea Soup with ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Split Pea Soup with?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you rinse the split peas well before cooking. Don’t skip the sautéing step as it enhances the flavor base of your soup.

Variations of Split Pea Soup with You Can Try

Here are some delicious twists on the classic recipe:

Split Pea Soup with Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
Vegan Split Pea Soup Recipe: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly option.
Split Pea Soup with Carrots and Celery: Add more vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.