There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup, especially on a chilly evening when the wind howls outside. As the vibrant hues of green split peas blend with aromatic vegetables and tender ham, this recipe transforms a handful of ingredients into a hearty feast. I first fell in love with this split pea soup recipe during a cozy dinner with friends, where the laughter mingled with the savory steam wafting from the pot.
What I adore about this soup is its versatility; it perfectly balances a rich, smoky flavor with the freshness of herbs. Plus, it’s a fabulous way to use up that forgotten ham bone chilling in the back of your fridge! You don’t need to be a professional chef to create this, making it ideal for anyone fed up with fast food and wanting to embrace homemade goodness. So grab your largest pot and let’s dive into a recipe that promises warmth, nourishment, and pure culinary joy!
Why is this Split Pea Soup Recipe a must-try?
Comforting warmth: There’s nothing like a bowl of thick, hearty split pea soup on a cold day, offering you solace with every spoonful.
Rich ingredients: The combination of savory ham and fragrant spices creates a flavor profile that will impress your taste buds.
Easy preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, dinner is a breeze.
Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later—perfect for busy nights!
Customizable goodness: Add extra veggies or herbs to tailor it to your liking, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
This split pea soup recipe is sure to become a staple; it’ll have you craving more than just fast food!
Delicious Split Pea Soup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to whip up this delightful split pea soup recipe.
For the Soup Base
- Olive oil – Adds richness and depth to the soup.
- Finely diced onion – Sweetens and enhances the overall flavor.
- Finely diced carrot – Provides a touch of natural sweetness and color.
- Finely diced celery – Contributes a fresh, aromatic crunch.
- Salt and pepper – Essential to bring out all the flavors.
- Minced garlic – Infuses the soup with a wonderful aromatic essence.
- Italian seasoning – A blend that adds a delightful herbaceous note.
- Ground cumin – Introduces a warm, earthy flavor that complements the peas.
- Dried thyme – Enhances the savory profile with its subtle floral aroma.
- Red pepper flakes – A hint of spice for those who love a kick.
For the Peas and Broth
- Green split peas – The star ingredient, making the soup hearty and filling.
- Bay leaves – Imparts a subtle flavor to the pot.
- Ham bone or ham hocks – Provides rich, meaty goodness to the soup.
- Reduced-sodium chicken broth – The base of your soup, ensuring a nice, balanced flavor.
For Optional Garnish
- Fresh thyme leaves – A pop of freshness to finish your dish beautifully.
- Hearty buttered bread – Perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup.
How to Make Split Pea Soup
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Heat the Oil: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrot, celery, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5–8 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and the onion is starting to turn golden.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to release those delicious scents.
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Incorporate the Peas: Add the rinsed green split peas and gently mix them through the aromatic vegetable mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated with flavors.
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Combine Ingredients: Toss in the ham bone (or ham hocks), bay leaves, and pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Check for Tenderness: Cook until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking. Don’t hesitate to add broth if the soup becomes too thick! If you want, toss in additional ham during the last 10 minutes of cooking for even more flavor.
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Prepare the Ham: When it’s time to serve, carefully remove the ham bone. Shred off any meat and discard the bone(s) and any fat. Return the shredded ham to the soup for rich texture.
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Blend for Creaminess: Discard the bay leaves and scoop out 2 cups of the soup. Blend until completely smooth, then return the creamy puree back to the pot and mix it through.
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Taste and Adjust: Give the soup a taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve Warm: Ladle the comforting soup into bowls and serve with a side of hearty buttered bread and optional fresh thyme leaves for a touch of elegance.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a burst of color and herbal fragrance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup
- Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and a meaty ham bone. Better ingredients enhance the flavor of your split pea soup recipe significantly.
- Don’t Rush Cooking: Allow the soup to simmer gently; this helps the flavors meld beautifully. If it’s too thick at the end, add more broth to keep it smooth.
- Avoid Over-blending: When blending, make sure only to puree part of the soup. Retaining some texture makes for a heartier experience.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste throughout cooking and adjust the salt and pepper. The broth and ham can influence the saltiness of your split pea soup.
- Storage Tips: Allow leftovers to cool completely before refrigerating. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer-lasting comfort.
Split Pea Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this split pea soup recipe uniquely yours!
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Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the ham bone with smoky liquid aminos or smoked paprika for that savory depth without the meat.
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Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in a diced jalapeño to ignite the heat and invigorate the flavor profile.
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Add Greens: Stir in diced spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a boost of nutrients and vibrant color.
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Sweet Potato Twist: Replace half of the carrots with diced sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage, adding them in place of thyme for a completely new aromatic experience.
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Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, blend in some coconut milk or heavy cream before serving, creating a richer, velvety mouthfeel.
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Extra Protein: Toss in cooked lentils or shredded rotisserie chicken during the last few minutes for added protein and heartiness.
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Garnish Variety: Top with crispy bacon bits, fried onions, or a dollop of sour cream to elevate every bowl with delightful contrasting textures.
Embrace these variations to make this comforting dish fit your taste and dietary needs—let your kitchen creativity flourish!
What to Serve with Split Pea Soup?
Cozy up your meal with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of your soup.
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Hearty Buttered Bread: This is the classic pairing that invites you to dip into the warming soup, soaking up every flavorful drop.
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Crispy Croutons: Crunchy on the outside and tender inside, croutons add an irresistible texture that elevates each spoonful of the soup.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized root vegetables like carrots and parsnips bring sweetness and a lovely earthiness, perfectly complementing the savory split pea soup.
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Savory Cheese Biscuits: Flaky and cheesy, these biscuits are perfect for dunking, enhancing the overall comfort of your meal.
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Light White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness of the soup, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
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Fruit Sorbet: After the hearty soup, a light, fruity sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, ending your meal on a sweet note.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe components are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the onion, carrot, and celery up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Moreover, the split peas can be rinsed and prepped the night before, ensuring everything is ready to go. When you’re ready to cook, just combine the prepped veggies, spices, and ham bone, and let the magic happen! If needed, the soup can also be cooled and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth if it thickens, and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Split Pea Soup
Fridge: Store cooled split pea soup in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Serving Suggestions: To refresh the soup when reheated, stir in a bit of fresh thyme or top with a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Split Pea Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting split peas?
Absolutely! When selecting split peas, look for bright-colored peas without any dark spots or blemishes. They should be whole and dry, ensuring optimal cooking and flavor. If you notice any signs of moisture, it’s best to avoid them!
How should I store leftover split pea soup?
For best results, store cooled split pea soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to spoilage.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze split pea soup, let it cool down completely. Transfer it into portioned containers or freezer bags, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it appears too thick.
What if my soup is too thick?
Very! If your split pea soup is too thick, don’t fret! Simply add more chicken broth or water a little at a time, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. If reheating, you might find it thickens further, so keep some broth handy to adjust as needed.
Are there any ingredient substitutions I can make?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ham and chicken broth with vegetable broth and use smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. You can also add in extra vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for additional nutrition. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, feel free to omit any spices or adjust according to your needs.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This split pea soup actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and deepen. I often prepare a big batch and enjoy it over the week, making it perfect for meal prep!
Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrot, celery, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5–8 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and the onion is starting to turn golden.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to release those delicious scents.
- Add the rinsed green split peas and gently mix them through the aromatic vegetable mixture, ensuring they're well-coated with flavors.
- Toss in the ham bone (or ham hocks), bay leaves, and pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking. Don’t hesitate to add broth if the soup becomes too thick! If you want, toss in additional ham during the last 10 minutes of cooking for even more flavor.
- When it’s time to serve, carefully remove the ham bone. Shred off any meat and discard the bone(s) and any fat. Return the shredded ham to the soup for rich texture.
- Discard the bay leaves and scoop out 2 cups of the soup. Blend until completely smooth, then return the creamy puree back to the pot and mix it through.
- Give the soup a taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the comforting soup into bowls and serve with a side of hearty buttered bread and optional fresh thyme leaves for a touch of elegance.