Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this hearty soup combines the earthy flavor of split peas with tender ham and vibrant vegetables. It’s not only nourishing but also incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a delightful meal without much fuss. Whether you’re using leftover ham or preparing it fresh, Split Pea Soup is a go-to recipe that never disappoints.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices, ham, and veggies creates a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or a starter; it’s great for lunch or dinner.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a healthy choice for the whole family.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Split Pea Soup experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is important. Below are essential items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (5.5 quart or larger)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender (for optional smooth texture)

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution, preventing the split peas from sticking and burning.
• Blender: Allows you to create a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup if desired.

Ingredients

Split Pea Soup is thick, creamy, and packed with veggies, split peas, and tender ham—humble-looking but bursting with flavor!

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups finely diced onion (2 medium onions)
– 1 cup finely diced carrot (2 to 3 large carrots)
– 1 cup finely diced celery (3 to 4 stalks)
– Salt and pepper
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic (4 cloves)
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1-1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed; old split peas may not soften)
– 2 small bay leaves (or 1 large)
– 1 meaty ham bone (or ham hocks; plus more ham if desired)
– 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
– Hearty buttered bread (for serving)

How to Make Split Pea Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large (5.5 quart or larger) heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil. Add onion, carrot, celery, and salt/pepper to taste (I add 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Cook until veggies are softened and onion is beginning to turn golden, about 5–8 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, red pepper flakes, and cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute. Incorporate rinsed split peas into the mix.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add the ham bone, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Cook until peas are tender and soup thickens to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick for your liking, add a splash more broth. If you have additional ham, stir it in during the last ten minutes of cooking.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

When ready to serve, remove the ham bone and shred off as much meat as possible. Discard any bones and fat. Return shredded ham to the soup (about 2 cups is ideal). Remove bay leaves from the pot. Take out about 2 cups of soup and blend until completely smooth using an immersion blender or countertop blender. Return this blended puree back into the soup pot and mix thoroughly. Taste your soup; adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Ladle hot Split Pea Soup into bowls. Serve with hearty buttered bread on the side along with a sprinkle of pepper and fresh thyme leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Serving Split Pea Soup is a delight, as it pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Hearty Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the thick soup.
• Garlic Bread: The savory flavor of garlic bread complements the soup’s earthiness beautifully.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful contrast to the savory split pea soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a splash of color.
• Thyme Leaves: Fresh thyme leaves can enhance the herbal notes in your soup.

Accompanied by Salads

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance.
• Caesar Salad: The richness of Caesar salad pairs nicely with the hearty texture of split pea soup.

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How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

To make your Split Pea Soup even more delicious, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Split Peas: Older split peas may not soften well, affecting the soup’s texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens too much, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Enhance Flavor with Ham: Adding extra chopped ham right before serving boosts the flavor significantly.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without adding dairy.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Split Pea Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing features gooey cheese that melts beautifully next to hot soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness in veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts, balancing the dish.
3. Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips provide a satisfying contrast to the smooth texture of split pea soup.
4. Pickles or Relishes: Tangy pickles offer a nice bite and cut through the creaminess of the soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and freshness, making it a healthy accompaniment.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf gives an additional layer of flavor and can be enjoyed alongside or in the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for the best results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using old split peas: Old peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always use fresh split peas for a creamy texture.
• Skipping the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté the vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Take your time to cook the onions, carrots, and celery until they are softened.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Be sure to taste before serving and add salt or pepper as needed.
• Overcooking the soup: Cooking the soup too long can make it overly thick and mushy. Monitor the cooking time closely and stir occasionally.
• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can affect the soup’s freshness. Follow proper storage techniques to keep your soup delicious.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Split Pea Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

• For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Split Pea Soup.

Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ham bone with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that savory flavor without meat.

How do I know when my split peas are cooked?

The split peas should be soft and breaking apart. If they still have a bite, continue cooking them longer.

Can I use other types of peas?

While green split peas are traditional, yellow split peas can also be used for a slightly different flavor.

What if my soup is too thick?

If your soup becomes too thick during cooking, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I customize my Split Pea Soup?

Absolutely! Add extra vegetables like potatoes or spinach, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Split Pea Soup is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors—perfect for warming up on chilly days!

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Split Pea Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

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Description

Split Pea Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. This simple yet flavorful soup combines earthy split peas with tender ham and vibrant vegetables, making it an excellent choice for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. With its nourishing ingredients and ease of preparation, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without much fuss. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting fresh, this Split Pea Soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups finely diced onion
• 1 cup finely diced carrot
• 1 cup finely diced celery
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1–1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1–1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed)
• 2 small bay leaves
• 1 meaty ham bone (or ham hocks)
• 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

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Instructions

1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper; sauté until softened (about 5–8 minutes). Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes for an additional minute.
2. Add rinsed split peas, ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes until peas are tender.
3. Remove the ham bone; shred any meat back into the soup. Blend about 2 cups of the soup until smooth for creaminess and return to the pot.
4. Serve warm with hearty bread on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 14g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 20mg