I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – ham and split pea soup. This hearty soup is a staple in our household, especially during the colder months.
It’s a comforting dish that warms the soul and fills the belly. As a busy mom, I appreciate that it’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
My kids love it because it’s a treat that feels like a hug in a bowl, and I love it because it’s packed with nutrients and fiber from the split peas. The best part?
It’s incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or want to add some extra flavor with spices and herbs, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
The history of this dish dates back to medieval Europe, where split peas were a common ingredient in peasant cooking. Over time, it evolved into various regional versions, but the core idea remains the same – a simple yet satisfying soup made with split peas, ham, and aromatic spices.
In our household, we love serving it with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a filling meal that leaves everyone satisfied.
Ham and Split Pea Soup
4.5 from 722 votes
A hearty and comforting soup made with tender split peas, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables. This classic dish is perfect for a cold day and transforms leftover ham into a satisfying meal.
1Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4Then add the rinsed split peas, chicken broth, ham bone or hock, bay leaves, dried thyme, and black pepper, and stir to combine.
5Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently.
6Cook for 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender and have broken down, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7Remove the ham bone or hock from the pot and set it aside until cool enough to handle.
8Once cool, shred any meat from the bone, discarding the bone, skin, and fat, and return the shredded meat to the pot.
9Add the diced cooked ham to the soup and stir well.
10Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat the ham through, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving.
For a thicker soup, mash some of the peas against the side of the pot before adding the ham. If you do not have a ham bone, use an extra ham hock or simply add more diced ham for flavor.
Watch Video Of How Ham and Split Pea Soup Works
This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in with loved ones. The best part?
It’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time and reheat when needed. In fact, I often make large batches on Sundays and portion them out throughout the week for quick lunches and dinners.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Split Pea Soup
What type of ham should I use?
For this recipe, you’ll want to use a bone-in ham hock or diced cooked ham. If you can’t find these options at your local grocery store, you can also substitute with leaner meats like turkey or chicken. Just be aware that the flavor might not be as rich and savory as using traditional ham.
Can I use dried instead of fresh split peas?
Yes, you can use dried split peas if they’re available in your area. Just be sure to soak them overnight before cooking them according to package instructions.
How do I store leftover soup?
You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure the soup is heated through before serving.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or coconut flour.
What are some variations on this recipe?
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors! Some ideas include adding diced vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor, using different types of meat like bacon or prosciutto for added smokiness, or trying out various spice blends like curry powder or smoked paprika for an international twist.
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