Hearty and Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal? Look no further than this amazing split pea soup with ham recipe! This soup is not only incredibly easy to make but also a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, transforming it into a satisfying and nutritious dish that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup
This split pea soup is a personal favorite for so many reasons. First and foremost, the broth is simply divine. The smoky, savory flavor that comes from simmering a ham hock or leftover ham bone is unparalleled. It infuses every spoonful with a depth of flavor that store-bought broths simply can’t match.
The combination of tender split peas, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a medley of simple seasonings creates a symphony of flavors that always tastes far more complex than the sum of its parts. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, offering both comfort and nourishment.
Plus, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and customizable. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a low-fuss, ultra-cozy, back-pocket recipe that you can rely on whenever you have leftover ham in the fridge. Trust me; you’ll adore it!
The Best Split Pea Soup Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create a truly memorable split pea soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium celery ribs, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed
- 1 leftover ham bone (or a small ham hock)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 cup (8 ounces) diced smoked ham slices
- Fine sea salt, to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, extra diced ham, croutons
Instructions:
- Sauté the veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the garlic and sauté, stirring frequently, for 1 minute more.
- Simmer: Stir in the split peas, ham hock, broth, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are very soft and beginning to break down.
- Adjust seasoning: Stir in the cooked ham and remove the bay leaf. Taste and season with additional black pepper or salt as needed. (Ham bones or hocks can vary significantly in terms of saltiness, so you may or may not need to add salt.)
- Serve: Ladle warm soup into bowls, garnish with a twist of black pepper and any desired garnishes, and enjoy!
Recipe Tips for Perfect Split Pea Soup
Here are a few handy tips to ensure your split pea soup turns out perfectly every single time:
- Rinse the split peas well: While soaking isn’t necessary, a quick rinse helps remove excess starch and any potential debris.
- Stir occasionally: Split peas have a tendency to settle at the bottom of the pot. Stirring every now and then prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Season at the end: Ham hocks and broth can vary greatly in saltiness. It’s best to wait until the soup is finished cooking before adding any salt.
- Want a thicker soup?: Let the soup rest for 10–15 minutes off the heat; it will naturally thicken as it cools. Alternatively, for an even creamier texture, transfer 1 or 2 cups of the soup to a blender and purée until smooth. Then, stir it back into the pot.
Delicious Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this split pea soup to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Add potatoes: Dice 1–2 Yukon gold potatoes and add them to the soup along with the peas for extra heartiness.
- Incorporate greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach during the final few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
- Add herbs: Introduce a sprig of fresh rosemary while simmering for an extra herby dimension. Remember to remove it before serving.
- Finish with crunch: Top the soup with homemade croutons or crushed crackers just before serving for a satisfying textural contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?
No! Split peas cook relatively quickly and soften beautifully without needing to be soaked beforehand.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I make this soup in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can! First, sauté the vegetables as described in the instructions. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the split peas are very tender.
Enjoy Your Homemade Split Pea Soup!
This split pea soup with ham is a recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its simplicity, combined with its incredible flavor, makes it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or simply want a comforting and nutritious soup, this recipe has you covered. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of homemade split pea soup!