Ultimate Cozy Comfort: Easy Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite soup experience! This easy Split pea soup with ham recipe is not just a simple comfort dish; it’s a fusion of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients that warms the heart and soul. Originating from humble beginnings, split pea soup has been enjoyed for centuries, beloved for its simplicity, nutrition, and packed, satisfying taste. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a seeking comfort after a long day, this homemade split pea soup with ham from scratch is the perfect solution. You’ll love how this dish melds the smokiness of ham with the creamy texture of split peas – it’s a match made in culinary heaven! Plus, for our plant-based friends, we’ll also touch on options for a vegan Split pea soup with ham as well.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Serving Size: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Meat

• 1 cup diced ham (smoked or honey-baked for extra sweetness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Garnishing (Optional)

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Crusty bread (for serving)

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Substitute a can of coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
• Swap out ham for diced turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or immersion blender (optional for a smoother texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by meticulously chopping the onions, carrots, and celery. These aromatic vegetables form the holy trinity of flavor that lays the groundwork for your soup. The vibrant colors alone promise a dish that is comforting in both taste and appearance.
2. Saute Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your large stockpot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they become translucent and aromatic. Then, stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they soften, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Add the Split Peas and Broth: Pour in the rinsed split peas and add the 6 cups of broth to the pot. The rich, golden broth will envelop the peas and vegetables, creating a lush foundation for your soup.
4. Add Seasonings: Toss in the bay leaf and sprinkle the dried thyme over the mixture. These ingredients contribute depth and a hint of earthiness, making your soup taste like it has simmered for hours.
5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for 1 hour. You’ll notice the peas breaking down and thickening the soup as time passes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Incorporate the Ham: Once the split peas are tender, add the diced ham into the simmering soup. Allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes. The ham’s smokiness will infuse the soup, creating a harmony of flavors that is both rich and satisfying.
7. Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, ladle portions into a blender to achieve creaminess; just be sure to allow it to cool slightly first to prevent splattering.
8. Final Seasoning: Taste your creation and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Remove the bay leaf, and prepare to serve!
9. Garnish and Serve: Serve your split pea soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Pair with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Special Notes

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently heat on the stove, adding broth if the soup has thickened.
• Make Ahead: Feel free to prepare the soup a day in advance. The flavors continue to meld and deepen overnight, often tasting even better the next day!
• Troubleshooting: If your soup ends up thicker than desired, simply stir in 1-2 cups of additional broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegan Option: For a vegan split pea soup with ham, omit the ham entirely and load up on additional vegetables—zucchini, kale, or bell peppers make excellent contributions. Consider adding smoky paprika for a hint of flavor without the meat.
• Flavor Enhancers: Experiment with additional spices such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even curry powder for a unique twist. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors significantly.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this comforting split pea soup contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 15g

Engaging Visual Details

As the soup simmers, picture a vibrant mix of green peas and colorful vegetables. The aroma that wafts through the kitchen is inviting, hinting at the comforting flavors to come. Once served, the chunky texture captivates the eyes, while the luscious green hue promises warmth and nourishment. Consider demonstrating each stage with photos, from chopping vegetables to ladling the steaming soup into bowls, showcasing the inviting final product garnished with parsley and served with bread.

Conclusion

This easy Split pea soup with ham recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that envelops you in warmth and comfort. We encourage you to try this recipe, whether you are reinvigorating an old favorite or discovering it for the first time. The combination of flavors, textures, and nutrition makes it a must-try in any culinary repertoire. Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, or share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish for a chance to be featured!

Make sure to adjust any ingredient quantities or cooking times according to your preferences or requirements. This recipe aims to balance rich flavor and nutrition while being inviting for readers.