The beauty of this Split Pea Soup lies in its heartiness and depth of flavor. Slowly simmered with a meaty ham bone and packed with tender split peas, carrots, celery, and onion, every spoonful is comforting and nourishing. Whether you’re making use of holiday leftovers or just craving something warm and savory, this soup is a timeless classic.
What’s even better is how budget friendly and customizable it is. You can use ham hock, diced ham, or even skip the meat for a vegetarian version. Plus, it’s naturally gluten free and gets better the longer it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or freezing for later. Serve it with crusty bread or on its own it’s satisfying either way.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 carrots, diced
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3 celery ribs, diced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon kosher salt
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 bay leaf
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1 meaty ham bone (or substitute with ham hock or diced ham)
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4 cups low sodium chicken broth
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3 to 4 cups water
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1 cup diced ham (from ham bone or separately added)
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Finely chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium high heat.
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Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
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Add split peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
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Add bay leaf, ham bone, chicken broth, and 3 cups of water.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 50 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas have softened and soup is thickened.
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Remove ham bone to a cutting board. Dice remaining meat and return it to the pot.
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Simmer uncovered for 5 to 15 minutes until desired thickness is reached. Add more water if needed.
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Remove bay leaf. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes
Kcal: 395 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Bowl of Comfort: The Story Behind Split Pea Soup with Ham
When it comes to comfort food that’s both nostalgic and deeply nourishing, split pea soup with ham holds a well deserved place at the top of the list. This hearty, rustic soup is a timeless classic found across many cultures, especially in colder regions where warming dishes are essential to getting through winter. Its appeal lies not just in its flavor but in its ability to turn simple, affordable ingredients into something magical the kind of food that wraps around you like a wool blanket.
Let’s take a deeper dive into what makes this soup so special, from its origins to modern-day variations and everything in between.
A Bit of History: Where Split Pea Soup Comes From
Split pea soup is far from a modern invention. Its roots go back to ancient civilizations, where legumes were a staple in diets due to their long shelf life, high nutritional value, and affordability. The Greeks and Romans were known to consume purees made from peas and lentils, often flavored with garlic or herbs.
In Europe, particularly in the Netherlands and Scandinavia, split pea soup evolved into a thicker, more rustic dish, often simmered with pork or sausage. The Dutch version, called erwtensoep or snert, is so thick it’s said a spoon should stand upright in the bowl. These traditional recipes were passed down through generations and adapted across continents.
In America, split pea soup became especially popular as a post holiday meal, often made using a leftover ham bone from Easter or Christmas. This practice not only stretched ingredients but also reduced waste an approach that aligns well with today’s renewed interest in sustainable cooking.
Why We Love It: Comfort, Simplicity, and Nutrition
There’s something inherently cozy about a bowl of split pea soup. The thick, velvety texture achieved without cream or flour makes it feel indulgent even though it’s incredibly wholesome. The natural starches released by the peas as they cook create a luxurious base that carries all the other ingredients.
Flavor wise, the combination of smoky ham, aromatic vegetables like onions and carrots, and earthy dried split peas creates a balanced, savory profile that is deeply satisfying. The addition of herbs like thyme and bay leaf adds depth and warmth without overpowering the core ingredients.
Nutritionally, split pea soup is a powerhouse. Split peas are high in protein and fiber, low in fat, and rich in essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and folate. When combined with the protein from ham and the vitamins from fresh vegetables, the soup becomes a complete, nourishing meal in a bowl.
For people following gluten free diets or looking for high fiber, low cost meals, this dish ticks all the boxes. It’s also naturally thickened, making it suitable for those avoiding flour based thickeners or cream.
Cooking Techniques That Make a Difference
Although it’s a simple recipe, the way you prepare split pea soup can have a major impact on the final result. One of the biggest flavor secrets lies in using a meaty ham bone. As it simmers, it releases collagen, marrow, and smokiness that infuse every spoonful of soup with rich umami. If a bone isn’t available, ham hocks, pancetta, or even diced ham steaks can be used instead, but the flavor may be less deep and complex.
Sautéing the mirepoix a combination of onion, carrots, and celery before adding the liquid base is another crucial step. This gentle caramelization draws out the natural sugars in the vegetables, adding a subtle sweetness and complexity that enhances the soup’s final profile.
Patience is key: this soup isn’t meant to be rushed. The longer it simmers, the more the peas break down and the flavors meld. Some like their soup ultra smooth, while others prefer a bit of texture left in the peas and vegetables. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor the soup to your own preferences.
Creative Variations for Every Palate
One of the great things about split pea soup is how adaptable it is. Here are a few popular variations and customizations:
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Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the ham and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. For extra richness, add a touch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke, and include sautéed mushrooms for umami.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of curry powder, cumin, or chili flakes to give the soup an unexpected global twist.
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Creamier Texture: Blend part or all of the soup for an ultra creamy finish. This works well if you prefer a smooth texture and want to hide the vegetables from picky eaters.
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With Grains: Stir in cooked barley, brown rice, or even farro to increase the fiber and make the soup extra hearty.
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Different Proteins: Instead of ham, try diced turkey bacon, smoked turkey legs, or plant based sausage.
These variations can breathe new life into a traditional recipe and ensure it fits a range of dietary needs or taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions: From Casual Lunch to Elegant Starter
Split pea soup may be humble, but it can be dressed up or down depending on how you serve it. For a casual weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with crusty sourdough bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple side salad.
To elevate it for a dinner party or gathering, serve the soup in rustic ceramic bowls, topped with a swirl of crème fraîche, chopped parsley, or crispy bacon bits for garnish. A drizzle of truffle oil or a few croutons made from artisan bread can also take the dish from comforting to restaurant worthy.
For a lighter presentation, serve it as a starter in smaller portions, garnished with a sprig of thyme and paired with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Storage and Freezing: A Soup That Gets Better with Time
One of the most satisfying things about making a big pot of split pea soup is knowing that it stores and freezes incredibly well. In fact, the flavor often deepens after a day or two in the fridge, making leftovers even more enjoyable.
To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water, as the soup tends to thicken over time.
This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or for stocking the freezer with ready to go comfort meals during the colder months.
Conclusion:
Split pea soup with ham is more than just a warm meal it’s a reflection of thoughtful, practical cooking that bridges tradition and modern life. It represents a beautiful balance of nutrition, flavor, and sustainability, allowing us to use every bit of what we have on hand to create something memorable and nourishing.
Whether you’re using a leftover ham bone from the holidays, trying to feed your family on a budget, or simply craving the kind of food that soothes the soul, this soup delivers every time. Its simplicity is part of its charm, but don’t let that fool you every spoonful tells a story of resourcefulness, care, and timeless comfort.
If you’ve never made it from scratch, now’s the perfect time. And if it’s already a staple in your kitchen, consider experimenting with a new twist or sharing the tradition with someone new. After all, the best recipes aren’t just made they’re shared.