Split Pea Ham Soup
Highlighted under: Classic Recipes
I’ve always been a fan of hearty soups, and this Split Pea Ham Soup quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of savory ham and tender split peas creates a deliciously comforting dish that warms me up on chilly days. I love how easy it is to make and how it fills the house with an irresistible aroma. It’s perfect for meal prep, and I find that it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld together.
When I first decided to make Split Pea Ham Soup, I wondered how a simple dish could be so flavorful. But as I started sautéing the aromatics, the scent filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. The secret is using a quality ham hock, which imparts an incredible depth of flavor as it simmers.
Also, I found that soaking the split peas overnight not only helps them cook more evenly but also enhances their creaminess. This little tip makes a big difference in achieving the perfect texture in the soup.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, smoky flavor from the ham
- Creamy texture that satisfies every spoonful
- Wholesome and filling, perfect for a family meal
- Easy to make and great for leftovers
The Role of Split Peas
Split peas are the star ingredient in this soup, providing not only great flavor but also a silky texture. Their high starch content means they break down during cooking, giving the soup a creamy consistency without the need for heavy cream. I recommend using yellow or green split peas based on your personal preference; both yield a delicious broth. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot to remove any debris or dust that might linger from packaging.
One thing to watch out for is the age of your split peas. Older split peas can take longer to cook and may not break down as well, leading to a less desirable texture. If your peas don’t seem to soften after simmering, they might be stale—consider purchasing from a reputable source to ensure freshness for every batch of soup.
Perfecting the Flavors
The ham hock not only enriches the soup with a smoky flavor but also contributes a depth of umami that really enhances the overall dish. If you can't find a ham hock, a leftover bone from a smoked ham or even diced smoked bacon can work as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the salt in the recipe, as these alternatives can add varying levels of saltiness.
While thyme and bay leaf bring a warm balance to the soup, experimenting with other herbs can elevate the flavor profile further. Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat or a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant twist. Adjust these ingredients according to your taste preferences; herbs are versatile, and you want to enhance, not overpower, the ham and pea flavors.
Ingredients for Split Pea Ham Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 ham hock
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Combine Ingredients
Add the ham hock, rinsed split peas, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Simmer the Soup
Cover and let it simmer for about 60 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and have broken down. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if necessary.
Remove and Shred Ham
Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat and return it to the soup. Discard the bone.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting split pea ham soup!
Enjoy Your Soup!
Pro Tips
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright finish.
Storing and Reheating
This soup is a fantastic meal prep option because it stores well. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container, and it can last in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, you can do so on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it seems too thick. The flavors may intensify overnight, making leftovers even more delicious!
If you’re looking to store the soup for a longer time, consider freezing it. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It freezes well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your split pea ham soup serving experience, consider garnishing with croutons for added crunch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a fresh taste. A touch of lemon juice drizzled just before serving can also brighten up the flavors considerably.
Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. I often serve it with a simple side of buttered whole-grain bread to soak up the rich broth. You can even serve it over rice for a different presentation and a filling addition.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ham hock with diced ham or even smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham hock and substitute vegetable broth for a lighter version.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Split Pea Ham Soup
I’ve always been a fan of hearty soups, and this Split Pea Ham Soup quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of savory ham and tender split peas creates a deliciously comforting dish that warms me up on chilly days. I love how easy it is to make and how it fills the house with an irresistible aroma. It’s perfect for meal prep, and I find that it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld together.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 ham hock
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ham hock, rinsed split peas, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and let it simmer for about 60 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and have broken down. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if necessary.
Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat and return it to the soup. Discard the bone.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting split pea ham soup!
Extra Tips
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright finish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g