Hearty Split Pea Soup | Classic Comfort Recipe
1. Introduction
Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, nutritious, and deeply flavorful. Made from simple ingredients like split peas, vegetables, and a smoky ham bone or ham chunks, this soup delivers a creamy, satisfying texture without needing cream.
Perfect for chilly days, lunch, or as a starter for dinner, split pea soup is a timeless classic that is as wholesome as it is delicious. With slow simmering and a balance of aromatics, vegetables, and protein, you’ll get a soup that’s thick, velvety, and bursting with flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and beginner-friendly while producing restaurant-quality results.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
- Split Peas (1 ½ cups, dried, green or yellow) – Forms the hearty base of the soup; rinse and sort before cooking.
- Ham Bone or Ham Hock (1) – Adds smoky, savory flavor; optional ham chunks can be added for extra protein.
- Carrots (2 medium, diced) – Sweetness and texture.
- Celery (2 ribs, diced) – Adds freshness and classic soup flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, diced) – Aromatic base.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances savory depth.
- Olive Oil or Butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing vegetables.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (6 cups) – Forms the liquid foundation.
- Thyme (1 tsp) – Adds subtle earthy flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Aromatic background note.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.
- Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – Fresh garnish for brightness.
Optional Substitutions:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Skip ham and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for depth.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste.
- Creamy version: Blend partially for a smoother texture.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Rinse split peas thoroughly and remove any debris. Chop carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and sauté 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Peas, Ham, and Broth
Stir in split peas, ham bone, broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover partially and simmer for 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and soup thickens.
Step 4: Remove Ham Bone and Blend (Optional)
Remove ham bone and bay leaf. If desired, blend part of the soup for a smoother texture while keeping some peas whole for body.
Step 5: Add Ham Chunks and Season
If using diced ham, add now and heat through 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers. Optional toppings: crispy bacon, grated cheese, or a swirl of cream.
4. Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor: Roast the vegetables slightly before adding peas.
- Make-ahead: Soup can be prepared a day ahead; flavors deepen overnight.
- Thick or thin: Adjust thickness by adding extra broth or blending more.
- Vegetarian: Replace ham with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for smoky flavor.
- Slow cooker option: Cook all ingredients on low for 6–8 hours for convenience.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad.
- Toppings: Fresh parsley, croutons, or bacon bits.
- Drinks: Pairs with light beer, cider, or herbal tea.
- Occasions: Cozy weeknight dinners, lunch gatherings, or comfort food cravings.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge overnight.
- Reheating: Warm on stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth if soup thickened too much.
7. Recipe Notes
- Rinse split peas thoroughly to remove grit.
- Partial blending creates a smooth yet chunky texture.
- Ham bone adds rich, smoky flavor; use leftover ham for added protein.
- Soup flavors improve if prepared a few hours ahead.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Fiber | 15 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Sodium | 900 mg |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups split peas, rinsed
- 1 ham bone or ham hock
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: diced ham for extra protein
Instructions
- Rinse split peas and chop vegetables.
- Sauté onion, carrots, celery in oil or butter 5–6 minutes; add garlic 1 minute.
- Add peas, ham bone, broth, thyme, and bay leaf; simmer 60–75 minutes until peas are tender.
- Remove ham bone and bay leaf. Blend partially for smooth texture if desired.
- Add diced ham (optional) and season with salt and pepper. Stir in parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
- Ham bone adds depth; leftover ham can be added.
- Partial blending gives creamy yet hearty texture.
- Soup improves when made ahead.
🏷️ Diet Tags:
- High-Fiber
- Protein-Rich
- Gluten-Free Option
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Rich in fiber from split peas for digestive health.
- Provides plant protein and slow-release carbohydrates.
- Low in fat and packed with vitamins and minerals.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit ham and use vegetable broth and smoked paprika for flavor.
2. Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes, up to 3 months; best thawed overnight in refrigerator.
3. Do I need to soak split peas?
No, split peas cook quickly and do not require soaking.
4. How can I make it creamier?
Blend partially or fully using an immersion blender or countertop blender.
5. Can I use leftover ham?
Yes, add diced ham during the last few minutes of cooking.
11. Final Thoughts
Split Pea Soup is hearty, healthy, and comforting — a timeless classic that warms the body and soul. Its simple ingredients transform into a thick, flavorful, and satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of wholesome comfort. Share your version — whether you added extra ham, veggies, or herbs, I’d love to hear your twist!