Ham And Split Pea Soup Recipe
Comforting and hearty, this ham and split pea soup warms the soul with every spoonful.
There’s something magical about a simmering pot of soup on a chilly day, filling the kitchen with the savory aroma of ham mingling with earthy split peas. This Ham and Split Pea Soup is a hug in a bowl, bringing warmth and comfort with each spoonful. It's one of those meals that not only satisfies your hunger but also seems to soothe the soul.
My first encounter with split pea soup was in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where she always had a pot bubbling away on the stove. Her version was a simple affair, but the flavors were robust and heartwarming, a testament to cooking with love and patience. This recipe takes inspiration from those memories but adds a twist to deepen the flavors.
The trick to this version is a quick sauté of vegetables to caramelize their natural sugars, adding a layer of sweetness that complements the smoky ham. The gentle simmer allows the split peas to break down just enough to thicken the soup, while still maintaining a bit of texture. Serve it on those lazy weekends when you have the luxury of time, or on a weeknight when you need a comforting meal that's deceptively easy to pull together.
Step-by-Step
- 01Step 1 / 7
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and starting to caramelize.
- 02Step 2 / 7
Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- 03Step 3 / 7
Stir in the split peas, ham bone, chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 04Step 4 / 7
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
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- 05Step 5 / 7
Remove the ham bone and bay leaves from the pot.
If using a ham bone, shred any meat from the bone and return the meat to the pot.
- 06Step 6 / 7
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
If desired, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup for a creamier texture, leaving some peas whole for added texture.
- 07Step 7 / 7
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Chef Tips
- •For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine during the vegetable sauté.
- •If you prefer a thicker soup, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking to allow more liquid to evaporate.
- •Feel free to add chopped fresh parsley at the end for a burst of color and freshness.
- •For vegetarians, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead, adding smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
- •Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as the ham can vary in saltiness.
Nutrition (per serving)
Estimates only. Actual values depend on brands and portions.
Frequently Asked
Can I make this ahead?+
Yes, this soup actually improves as it sits, making it perfect for make-ahead meals. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What can I substitute?+
If you don’t have a ham bone, diced smoked ham or bacon works well to add flavor. You can also substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
How do I store leftovers?+
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding water if needed to adjust the consistency.
