Embrace the warmth and comfort of a timeless favorite with our Classic Split Pea Soup recipe. This hearty soup is a celebration of wholesome ingredients, including tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and savory ham. Simmered to perfection, each spoonful offers a symphony of flavors that will soothe your soul and satisfy your appetite. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly day or seeking a taste of nostalgia, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
In our family, Classic Split Pea Soup holds a special place as a cherished tradition passed down through generations. I fondly remember my grandmother spending hours in the kitchen, meticulously preparing this soul-warming dish for our family gatherings. As the aroma of simmering peas and savory ham filled the air, we would eagerly gather around the table, eager to savor each spoonful of this comforting soup. Now, as I carry on the legacy of this beloved recipe, I’m reminded of the joy it brings to our table and the memories it helps us create with each shared meal.
Why This Comforting Classic Split Pea Soup Is a Must-Try:
- Rich and Flavorful: From the earthy sweetness of split peas to the savory notes of ham and aromatic vegetables, every spoonful of this soup is bursting with satisfying flavor.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it the perfect choice for a wholesome meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible to home cooks of all skill levels, allowing you to whip up a comforting bowl of soup with ease.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Whether enjoyed as a satisfying lunch, a comforting dinner, or a nourishing starter, this Classic Split Pea Soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (28 grams)
- 1 medium onion, diced (about 150 grams)
- 3 carrots, diced (about 200 grams)
- 3 ribs of celery, diced (about 150 grams)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed (about 450 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (1 gram)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 meaty ham bone (see tips and alternatives above)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (960 milliliters)
- 3 to 4 cups water (720 to 960 milliliters)
- 1 cup diced ham (from ham bone or added separately)
- Finely chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add the rinsed split peas, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Add the bay leaf, meaty ham bone, low-sodium chicken broth, and 3 cups of water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 50 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened and the peas have broken down.
- Using tongs, remove the ham bone from the soup and transfer it to a cutting board. Dice the remaining meat (about 1 cup) from the ham bone and return it to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the soup uncovered for an additional 5 to 15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness. If the soup is too thick, you can add another cup of water. Keep in mind that the soup will continue to thicken as it sits.
- Discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Classic Split Pea Soup!
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat before serving and adjust the consistency with a splash of water if needed. Enjoy!
