split pea soup with ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
split pea soup with ham recipe
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The Best split pea soup with ham recipe

I’ve been making split pea soup with ham for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly winter evening or a special occasion.

I love how the sweetness of the peas pairs with the smokiness of the ham, and the way the flavors all come together to create a rich, satisfying broth. My kids devour it, and I’ve even had guests request seconds (and sometimes thirds!)

when we serve it at family gatherings. But what really sets this recipe apart is its incredible health benefits – split peas are packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.

Plus, the ham adds a boost of protein and flavor without overpowering the dish. In short, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious, healthy option that’s easy to make and pleases even the pickiest eaters.

Split Pea Soup with Ham

Split Pea Soup with Ham

4.9 from 1617 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with dried split peas, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables. This classic dish is perfect for a cold day and simmers to a thick, creamy consistency.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hr 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed
1 ham hock or 1 cup diced cooked ham
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
4Add the rinsed split peas, ham hock (or diced ham), chicken broth, bay leaves, and dried thyme to the pot.
5Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently.
6Simmer the soup for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are tender and have broken down into a thick, creamy consistency.
7The ham should be falling off the bone if using a ham hock.
8Remove the ham hock from the pot and let it cool slightly.
9Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bone, discarding the bone and any gristle, then return the shredded ham to the soup.
10Remove the bay leaves from the soup and season with black pepper and salt to taste.
11Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or croutons.

🔧Equipment

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 18g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a thicker soup, mash some of the peas against the side of the pot with a spoon before serving. Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Watch Video Of How Split Pea Soup with Ham Works

This split pea soup with ham recipe is always a hit at our house – whether we’re serving it as a comforting meal on its own or as part of a larger gathering. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead and reheat as needed. Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer and reheat when you’re ready.

You can also serve it hot or chilled – whichever suits your taste! Overall, this recipe is perfect for busy families like mine who need healthy, delicious meals that don’t require too much fuss.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Soup with Ham

Q: What type of ham should I use in this recipe?

I recommend using a good-quality smoked ham or bacon for this recipe. The smoky flavor adds depth and richness to the dish, but you can also use regular pork or beef if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply brown the ham and cook the vegetables in a skillet before transferring everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: How do I store leftover split pea soup?

Let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite spices, herbs, or vegetables to make this recipe your own.

Q: Is split pea soup suitable for vegetarians?

No – traditional split pea soup recipes include ham or bacon as a main ingredient. However, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting with tempeh or seitan and adjusting the seasonings accordingly.

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