Split Pea Soup Recipe

Introduction

Split pea soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Made with tender split peas and flavorful ham, this soup is satisfying and easy to prepare from scratch.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried split peas (yellow or green, about 14 ounces)
• 1 meaty ham bone (or 2 cups leftover ham, diced)
• 4 cups water (or additional broth if desired)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 1 large yellow onion (diced)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• Salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Sort through the split peas to remove any debris, then rinse and drain them well.
2. Step 2: In a large pot, combine the peas, ham bone, water, chicken broth, dried parsley, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer covered for 1 hour.
3. Step 3: Add the diced celery, carrots, onion, black pepper, dried thyme, and salt. Cover and simmer for an additional 45 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the ham bone, chop any meat from it, and return the meat to the pot. Continue cooking uncovered until the soup thickens and the peas have broken down, about 20 minutes more.
5. Step 5: Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use leftover smoked ham or ham hocks for a richer, smoky flavor.
• For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding the ham meat back in.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
• Vegetarian option: omit ham and use vegetable broth with smoked paprika for depth.

Storage

Store split pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened too much. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use green split peas instead of yellow?

Yes, both yellow and green split peas work well in this soup. They have similar cooking times and flavor profiles.

Do I have to use a ham bone?

No, if you don’t have a ham bone, diced leftover ham can be added directly to the soup. The ham bone adds extra flavor, but the soup will still be delicious without it.