Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings. This hearty soup combines the earthy flavors of split peas with tender ham and fresh vegetables, creating a bowl that is both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re warming up after a chilly day or looking to impress guests with a delicious homemade meal, this recipe shines in its simplicity and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This split pea soup warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
- Packed with Nutrients: The combination of vegetables and split peas provides fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this meal without any fuss.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator, making it great for meal prep or quick lunches.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Split Pea Soup, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Essential for even cooking, preventing the soup from burning as it simmers.
- Blender: Handy if you want to create a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup.
Ingredients
Split Pea Soup is thick, creamy, and packed with veggies, split peas, and tender ham—humble-looking but bursting with flavor!
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- 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, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the onion is beginning to turn golden brown—about 5 to 8 minutes.
Add minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about one minute before adding the rinsed split peas into the mixture.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
Add the ham bone or hocks along with bay leaves and reduced-sodium chicken broth into the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60 to 90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the split peas don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the peas are tender and have thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Shred Ham and Blend
Once ready to serve, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred off as much meat as you can from the bone while discarding any fat or bones. Return shredded ham back into the soup. Remove bay leaves at this stage.
If you prefer a creamier texture, take out about two cups of soup and blend until completely smooth. Return this blended mixture back into your pot for an even creamier finish.
Step 4: Serve Your Soup
Ladle your delicious Split Pea Soup into bowls. Serve it warm with hearty buttered bread on the side. For added freshness, sprinkle some freshly chopped thyme over each bowl before enjoying!
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Serving Split Pea Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any occasion.
With Fresh Herbs
- Thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves adds a pop of color and enhances the herbal notes of the soup.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley gives a fresh taste and brightens up the dish.
With Bread
- Hearty Buttered Bread: Serve warm, buttered slices alongside your soup for dipping.
- Crusty Baguette: A crunchy baguette complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.
With Cheese
- Parmesan Shavings: Adding shavings of Parmesan on top brings a salty richness that balances well with the soup’s flavors.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar adds a delicious creaminess, enhancing the overall comfort factor.
With Crackers
- Saltine Crackers: Classic and simple, they provide a satisfying crunch.
- Whole Grain Crackers: For a healthier option, whole grain crackers add fiber and flavor.
How to Perfect Split Pea Soup
To achieve the best Split Pea Soup, consider these tips for flavor and texture enhancement.
- Use fresh split peas: Fresh peas cook evenly and create a creamier texture compared to older ones.
- Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt or spices incrementally allows you to find the perfect balance.
- Blend partially for creaminess: Blending a portion of the soup makes it luxuriously thick without losing all the hearty elements.
- Let it sit before serving: Allowing your soup to rest enhances flavors as they meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup can make for a delightful meal. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; use sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Their crispiness contrasts nicely with the soup’s creaminess.
- Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens with vinaigrette add brightness and crunch to your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread offers a delightful balance to the savory soup.
- Pickled Vegetables: The acidity from pickles cuts through the richness of Split Pea Soup effectively.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: A hearty stuffed pepper can work as a filling side dish, complementing your meal perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the freshness of your peas before starting.
- Skipping the soaking step: While not mandatory, soaking split peas can help them cook faster and improve texture. Soak them for a few hours or overnight if you have time.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Sauté them just until they are softened but still retain some structure.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Each batch of soup may need different amounts of salt and spices. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking to enhance flavor.
- Not blending enough: For a creamier texture, blend some of the soup as suggested in the recipe. This step creates a rich, thick consistency that’s more enjoyable.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Split Pea Soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for about 3–5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Split Pea Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Split Pea Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered in an oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through; add broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making Split Pea Soup.
Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I thicken Split Pea Soup?
If your soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a while longer. You can also blend part of it to achieve your desired thickness.
What can I serve with Split Pea Soup?
Hearty buttered bread pairs wonderfully with this soup. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Dried herbs work well in this recipe. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How long does it take to cook Split Pea Soup?
The total cooking time is around 90 minutes. However, prep time is only about 20 minutes, making it relatively quick!
Final Thoughts
This Split Pea Soup is not only comforting and flavorful but also versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to adjust ingredients or spices according to what you have on hand. Enjoy this hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of Split Pea Soup—a classic dish that blends earthy split peas, tender ham, and vibrant vegetables into a creamy, nutritious bowl. This recipe is perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Plus, it stores beautifully, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 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 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1–1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- Ham bone or hocks
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper until softened.
- Stir in garlic and spices; cook for one minute before adding split peas.
- Add ham bone and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 60 to 90 minutes until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone, shred meat back into the soup, and blend part of the soup if desired for creaminess.
- Serve warm with buttered bread.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
