Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

Warm your heart and fill your belly with this classic Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe. This delicious dish combines tender split peas, savory ham, and a medley of vegetables, resulting in a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for chilly days or a cozy family dinner.

What are Split Peas?

Split peas are dried legumes that come from green or yellow peas. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and cook down into a creamy texture, making them ideal for soups. They are also packed with protein, fiber, and various nutrients. Using split peas in your cooking is a great way to add some nutrition and heartiness to your meals.

Ingredients for Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

To whip up this delightful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 8 cups ham or vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups diced ham (smoked or cooked is best)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh, according to your preference)

Optional Add-Ins

You can customize your soup with these additions:

  • Potatoes: Diced potatoes add extra heartiness.
  • Spinach or Kale: Adding greens boosts the nutrition.
  • Cayenne pepper: For a bit of kick, if you enjoy spice.

How to Make Split Pea and Ham Soup

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing your split peas in cold water and chop the vegetables as listed in the ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
  3. Add the Peas and Stock: Stir in the split peas, bay leaf, and thyme. Pour in the ham or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  1. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally, and look out for any split peas that might stick to the bottom.
  2. Add the Ham: After about an hour, add the diced ham and continue simmering for another 20 to 30 minutes. The split peas should soften and start to break down, thickening the soup.
  3. Taste and Adjust: Remove the bay leaf, taste the soup, and then season with salt and pepper. If you want a creamier texture, feel free to blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or mash it with a fork.
  1. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
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Tips for Perfect Split Pea and Ham Soup

  • Soaking Split Peas: Soaking isn’t mandatory, but it can help reduce cooking time. If you choose to soak them, do so overnight.
  • Quality Broth: Using good-quality broth makes a world of difference. Homemade stock gives the best flavor.
  • Ham Options: Leftover holiday ham works wonderfully. You can also use a ham bone to flavor the soup as it cooks.

How to Store Leftover Soup

Storing your split pea and ham soup is easy! Here are quick tips:

  • Cool Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Refrigeration: Transfer it into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

How to Reheat Split Pea and Ham Soup

Reheating your soup is quite easy. Follow these steps:

  1. Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
  2. Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it (leaving a gap for steam), and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until it’s hot.

Variations of Split Pea and Ham Soup

Feel free to get creative with your split pea and ham soup! Here are some tasty variations:

  • Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños for a touch of spice.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and replace the broth with vegetable stock. Add in more kinds of vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for flavor.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique taste.
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Nutritional Benefits of Split Pea and Ham Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here’s what it offers:

  • High in Protein: Split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein.
  • Rich in Fiber: This soup can support digestive health and keep you feeling full longer.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like carrots, celery, and ham provide essential nutrients including vitamin A, vitamin K, and iron.

Split pea and ham soup is more than just a recipe. It’s a reminder of cozy kitchens and warm hearts. Try this recipe at home, and you might just find it becomes a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, and start cooking today! Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your split pea creation, knowing you’ve made something truly special.