Split Pea Soup with Ham: 7 Steps to Cozy Comfort

Name: Split Pea Soup with Ham: 7 Steps to Cozy Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound dried green split peas; 1 ham hock; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup with ham, isn’t there? It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly day! This hearty soup is not just filling; it’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it the perfect choice for a nutritious meal. I remember the first time I made this soup—it was a rainy afternoon, and the smell of simmering peas and savory ham filled my kitchen, drawing my family in like moths to a flame. It became a staple in our home, a dish that brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a classic comfort food loved by many!

split pea soup with ham - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over to remove any debris
1 ham hock, preferably bone-in for maximum flavor
1 onion, diced finely for even cooking
2 carrots, diced into small pieces for sweetness
2 celery stalks, diced to add depth to the flavor
3 cloves garlic, minced to infuse the soup with aroma
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth, low-sodium preferred to control saltiness
1 teaspoon dried thyme, for a subtle herbal note
1 bay leaf, to enhance the overall flavor profile
Salt and pepper to taste, for seasoning

How to Prepare split pea soup with ham

Making split pea soup with ham is a delightful experience! The process is straightforward, but it’s all about taking your time to let those flavors meld together beautifully. Here’s how I do it, step by step.

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by rinsing the split peas under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove impurities and excess starch. Set them aside as they soak up that water.
Grab a large, heavy-bottomed pot (I love using my Dutch oven for this!). Heat a splash of oil over medium heat and add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This is where the magic starts!
Once the veggies are tender, toss in the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, as garlic can burn quickly and we don’t want that bitter taste.
Next, add the rinsed split peas, the ham hock, broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together, bringing it to a gentle boil. Oh, the smell is already heavenly!
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let it bubble away for about 1.5 hours. You’ll want to check occasionally, giving it a stir and ensuring it’s not sticking to the bottom. If the soup seems thickening too much, feel free to add a bit more broth or water.
After 1.5 hours, the split peas should be tender. Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Let it cool for a moment, then shred the meat from the bone and return it to the soup. Discard any excess fat. This step adds both flavor and texture!
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually wait until the end to add salt, as the ham can be quite salty itself. Serve hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

And there you have it! A hearty split pea soup with ham that’s perfect for warming your soul. Enjoy every spoonful!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can change based on the exact ingredients and brands you use, so consider this a rough estimate. This hearty split pea soup with ham is packed with goodness, making it a nourishing choice for your meals. Here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 15g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 20mg

So, go ahead and enjoy this delicious soup knowing it’s not just comforting but also nutritious! Just remember to adjust these values based on your specific choices in ingredients and portion sizes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying hunger on chilly days.
Easy to prepare with straightforward steps, making it ideal for home cooks of any level.
Nutrient-packed with protein and fiber, offering a nourishing meal.
Comforting flavors that evoke nostalgia and warmth, great for family gatherings.
Versatile; you can enjoy it as a main dish or a delightful starter.
Budget-friendly, utilizing simple, affordable ingredients.
Perfect for meal prep—makes great leftovers that taste even better the next day!
Customizable to suit your taste, whether you prefer it chunky or smooth.

Tips for Success

To make your split pea soup with ham truly shine, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I’ve picked up over the years. Trust me, they’ll make a world of difference!

Quality Ingredients: Always use high-quality split peas and a good ham hock. Fresh ingredients really elevate the flavor. If you can, look for organic or locally sourced peas—they tend to be fresher and more flavorful.
Soaking the Peas: While it’s not strictly necessary, soaking the split peas for an hour before cooking can help them cook faster and result in a creamier texture. Just remember to rinse them well after soaking!
Watch Your Heat: When you first bring the soup to a boil, it’s important to reduce the heat to a low simmer. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to develop without scorching the bottom of the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Taste as You Go: Don’t be shy about tasting the soup throughout the cooking process. This way, you can adjust the seasoning as needed, especially since the saltiness can vary depending on the ham.
Texture Preference: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend a portion of it after cooking. Just be careful when blending hot liquids; let it cool slightly and blend in batches if necessary!
Storing Leftovers: When storing leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors deepen as it sits, so you might find it tastes even better the next day!
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the split peas as they cook. They should be tender but not mushy. Overcooked peas can turn the soup into a thick paste, and we want that lovely texture!

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and comforting bowl of split pea soup with ham that everyone will love!

Variations

One of the great things about split pea soup with ham is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences! Here are some variations you might want to try:

Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham hock and replace it with a generous tablespoon of smoked paprika. It adds that lovely smoky flavor without the meat. You can also toss in some diced smoked tofu for extra protein!
Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs to elevate the flavor! Fresh dill or rosemary can add a delightful twist. Just remember to add them towards the end of cooking for the brightest flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. This will give your soup a nice little kick without overpowering it.
Root Vegetable Delight: Mix in other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips. They’ll add a subtle sweetness and extra nutrition to the soup, making it even heartier.
Creamy Variation: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream towards the end of cooking. It adds a new dimension of richness that’s simply divine!
Garnish Galore: Top your soup with crispy bacon bits, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream for a delicious contrast in texture. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also work wonders as a bright garnish.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect bowl of split pea soup! There’s no wrong way to enjoy this comforting classic.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover split pea soup with ham can be just as delightful as when you first made it! To ensure it stays fresh and tasty, follow these simple storage tips:

Cool Before Storing: Allow your soup to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your soup watery.
Refrigeration: Store the cooled soup in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to keep out any unwanted odors!
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, split pea soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. It should keep well for about 2-3 months.

When it comes to reheating, here’s how to keep that flavor and texture intact:

Thawing: If you’ve frozen your soup, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can place the sealed bag in a bowl of cold water for a quicker thaw.
Stovetop Reheating: Pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up a bit, as the soup can thicken after sitting.
Microwave Reheating: If you’re short on time, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave. Just place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

Keep in mind that the flavors tend to deepen and meld together after sitting for a day, so you might find that your split pea soup tastes even better the next time around! Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, and enjoy the comforting warmth all over again!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your hearty split pea soup with ham, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to a whole new level! Here are some delightful ideas to create a complete and satisfying dining experience:

Crispy Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread—like sourdough or a rustic baguette—is perfect for dipping into that rich, creamy soup. You can even toast some slices with a bit of butter and garlic for extra flavor!
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: You can’t go wrong with a classic grilled cheese! The gooey, melty cheese pairs beautifully with the texture of the soup, making each bite feel like a comforting hug.
Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the warm, hearty soup. You might go for a simple mixed greens salad topped with sliced cucumbers, radishes, and a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese.
Garnishes: Elevate your soup by adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, right before serving. A drizzle of olive oil or a dash of smoked paprika can also add a lovely finishing touch.
Pickled Vegetables: For a tangy twist, serve your soup alongside pickled vegetables. The acidity and crunch will brighten the meal and balance the rich flavors of the soup.
Cheese Croutons: Take some day-old bread, top it with your favorite cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. These cheesy croutons are heavenly when dropped into your bowl!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a cozy and satisfying meal that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures with every bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.