I’ve been making this ham bone split pea soup recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s one of those classic comfort foods that never fails to warm the heart and fill the belly.
The rich flavor of the ham bone, combined with the sweetness of the split peas, is a match made in heaven. And the best part?
It’s incredibly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. I simply throw all the ingredients into a pot and let it simmer away, filling the house with the most wonderful aroma.
My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they always ask for seconds (or thirds!) This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
And as an added bonus, it’s packed with nutrients and protein to keep everyone energized and satisfied. Plus, it makes great leftovers for future meals.
I’ve served it at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a regular Tuesday night dinner. The simplicity of this recipe belies its depth of flavor and nutritional value.
Ham Bone Split Pea Soup
4.8 from 1984 votes
A hearty and comforting soup made with a smoky ham bone and tender split peas. This classic recipe simmers low and slow to develop deep, savory flavors.
1 lb dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste (optional, ham bone is salty)
👨🍳Directions
1Place the ham bone in a large stockpot or Dutch oven.
2Add the rinsed split peas, chicken broth, water, bay leaves, and dried thyme.
3Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently, partially covered, for 45 minutes.
4The broth will become slightly cloudy and the peas will begin to soften.
5Remove the ham bone from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
6Stir in the diced carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic.
7Continue to simmer the soup uncovered over medium-low heat for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the peas have broken down into a thick, creamy texture.
8Once the ham bone is cool enough to handle, use a fork to pull off any meat and discard the bone and any fat or gristle.
9Chop the ham into bite-sized pieces.
10Return the ham to the pot, add the black pepper, and stir well.
11Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to reheat the meat.
12Taste the soup and add salt only if needed, as the ham bone often provides enough saltiness.
13Remove the bay leaves before serving.
14Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot.
15The soup will thicken as it cools; thin it with a little water or broth when reheating if desired.
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth. Add a smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How Ham Bone Split Pea Soup Works
This ham bone split pea soup recipe is truly one of my favorites – it’s perfect for any occasion and works well for family gatherings. The leftovers are just as delicious as when it’s freshly made, making this recipe a great option for meal prep or storing in the fridge for later.
It reheats beautifully from frozen or straight from the fridge, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch! In fact, I often double or triple this recipe when serving larger groups – everyone loves it.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Bone Split Pea Soup
What type of ham bone is best for this recipe?
For this recipe, you’ll want to use a smoked or cured ham bone, as these will add the most flavor to your soup. You can use either a pork or beef ham bone, whichever you have on hand.
Can I use fresh split peas instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh split peas if you prefer them over dried. However, keep in mind that fresh peas may not hold up as well to long cooking times.
How long can I store leftover soup in the fridge?
You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently over low heat until warmed through.
Can I freeze this soup for later?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for later use. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
How do I reheat frozen soup?
To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat it from frozen in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
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