Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a cozy meal after a long day, this hearty soup delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures. With its thick, creamy consistency, packed with nutritious vegetables and tender ham, Split Pea Soup not only warms you up but also delights your taste buds. This recipe is both simple and versatile, ensuring it becomes a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and ham creates a depth of flavor that makes every spoonful enjoyable.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from split peas and ham, plus vitamins from vegetables, this soup is healthy comfort food.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or side, Split Pea Soup is great for any meal—lunch or dinner.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! It’s ideal for meal prep or using leftover ham.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference in achieving that perfect bowl of Split Pea Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution while simmering, preventing any scorching of the soup.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, saving you valuable prep time.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving soup without spills, allowing you to enjoy every drop of your delicious creation.

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; see note 3; 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. Cook while stirring constantly for about 1 minute. Then add rinsed split peas and mix thoroughly.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add ham bone, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes (see note 4), stirring occasionally so the peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Cook until peas are tender and soup has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir more frequently as it thickens; add a splash more broth if it gets too thick for your preference. If adding additional ham, include it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Step 3: Blend Half of the Soup

Once ready to serve, remove ham bone and shred off as much meat as you can. Discard bones and fat. Return shredded ham to the soup (about 2 cups is ideal). Remove bay leaves. Blend about 2 cups of the soup until completely smooth (see note 5). Return blended puree back into the pot. Mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt/pepper as needed.

Step 4: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and serve with hearty buttered bread on the side. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Split Pea Soup!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a hearty dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer it simple or with a touch of flair, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

With Hearty Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve warm slices of fresh baguette alongside your soup for dipping.
• Buttered Toast: A slice of buttered toast adds a comforting crunch to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves: Add a few thyme leaves to elevate the flavor profile of the soup.

With Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: A handful of shredded cheddar cheese melted on top provides creaminess and richness.
• Parmesan Shavings: Thin shavings of Parmesan cheese add a salty kick to each bowl.

As a Meal Starter

• Small Cups: Serve small cups of Split Pea Soup as an appetizer before the main course.
• Mini Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for individual servings.

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How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

Perfecting your Split Pea Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out beautifully every time.

• Choose Quality Peas: Use fresh green split peas, as old ones may not soften during cooking.
• Season Gradually: Start with less salt and adjust at the end; this prevents over-salting.
• Blend for Creaminess: Puree part of the soup for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for heartiness.
• Add More Flavor: Consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for an extra depth of flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If your soup becomes too thick, simply stir in more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Cool Properly: Allow any leftovers to cool before storing them in the fridge for easier reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing side dishes with Split Pea Soup can take your meal from good to great. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup’s heartiness wonderfully.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
4. Pickles or Relish Tray: Tangy pickles add brightness and balance to the richness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: A hearty stuffed bell pepper can serve as a filling side that matches well.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional textures and flavors to the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Split Pea Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using old split peas – Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the expiration date and use fresh peas for the best results.
• Skipping the sauté – Sautéing vegetables builds flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to your soup.
• Not adjusting seasoning – It’s essential to taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking – Cooking time is crucial. Monitor your soup closely to achieve the perfect creamy consistency without mushy peas.
• Ignoring blending – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture. If you want a thicker soup, don’t skip this step!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Split Pea Soup can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in a covered oven-safe dish for about 30 minutes, adding broth if needed.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add water or broth if it gets too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Split Pea Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.

What is Split Pea Soup?

Split Pea Soup is a hearty dish made from split green peas, vegetables, and often includes ham or bacon for added flavor.

How do I store leftover Split Pea Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for three months.

Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Split Pea Soup?

Pair your soup with hearty buttered bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when my Split Pea Soup is done cooking?

The soup is ready when the split peas have softened and the consistency is thick but creamy. Stir occasionally while cooking.

Final Thoughts

Split Pea Soup is not just a comforting dish; it’s versatile too! You can easily customize it by adding different veggies or spices according to your preference. Whether you’re using leftover ham or keeping it vegetarian, this soup will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!