I’ve always adored the way a pot of split pea soup fills the entire house with warmth—it’s like wrapping yourself in a familiar, worn-out quilt. On those days when the weather seems to have a mind of its own, deciding between sun and storm, nothing comforts quite like a big, hearty bowl. It’s my go-to soup, especially with a crusty bread on the side—seriously, who can resist?
Steps
- Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery, sautéing for 3 minutes, then incorporate garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and water, then add split peas, bay leaves, and thyme. Lightly season with salt and pepper, keeping in mind that more salt can be added later based on the saltiness of the ham.
- Place the ham bone into the soup mixture and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 60 to 80 minutes until peas and ham are tender.
- Remove the ham bone from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes. Shred or dice the meat into pieces and set aside.
- Add carrots to the soup, cover, and continue simmering, stirring occasionally, for another 30 minutes until the peas have mostly broken down.
- Return the shredded ham to the pot, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve the soup warm, optionally garnished with parsley.
Ingredients
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups water
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 meaty ham bone (or ham shanks)
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories 2700 | Fat 45.84g | Saturated Fat 10.8g | Cholesterol 400mg | Sodium 1213.62mg | Potassium 8149.86mg | Carbohydrates 325.44g | Fiber 125.76g | Sugar 56.1g | Protein 259.44g | Vitamin A 22768.92IU | Vitamin C 43.14mg | Calcium 558.96mg | Iron 28.98mg
FAQ
- Do split peas need to be soaked before cooking?
- No, soaking split peas before cooking is not necessary. However, it is important to pick through them to remove any debris or pebbles and give them a rinse.
- Can I freeze split pea soup?
- Absolutely, split pea soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool before storing it in airtight containers, leaving a small gap for expansion. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat the next day.
- How long does split pea soup last in the refrigerator?
- When stored in the refrigerator, split pea soup can last for about three days. It will thicken as it sits, but can be thinned with water when reheating if desired.
- Can I make split pea soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can make it in a slow cooker. Use 2 cups of water instead of 4, add all ingredients (except parsley), and cook on low for 7-8 hours. After cooking, remove the ham, shred it, and add it back to the soup.
- What can I serve with split pea soup?
- Split pea soup pairs well with dishes like 1-hour dinner rolls, biscuits, cornbread, or no-knead bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use a Meaty Ham Bone: Incorporating a leftover meaty ham bone is key to enhancing the soup’s flavor. The bone and any remaining meat contribute a rich taste, making it a better option than just using chopped ham alone.
- Adjust the Salt: Be cautious with salt while cooking. Wait to add the majority of the salt until after the ham has cooked in the soup. This helps to avoid over-salting, as ham can vary significantly in its salt content.
- Thickness Control: If you find the soup isn’t thickening to your liking, try simmering it uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate, resulting in a thicker consistency.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to three months. Remember to leave about a 3/4-inch gap in the container to allow for expansion as it freezes. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Equipment
- Large Pot – For cooking the soup on the stovetop.
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot) – If you prefer to use the crockpot method.
- Instant Pot – If you choose to use the Instant Pot method.
- Chef’s Knife – For chopping vegetables and ham.
- Cutting Board – For preparing ingredients.
- Ladle – For serving the soup.
