Classic Split Pea Soup
Introduction
As an expert chef, there are few dishes that embody the perfect combination of comfort, nutrition, and flavor like a bowl of classic split pea soup. Rich, hearty, and warming, this soup brings together earthy split peas, aromatic vegetables, and savory ham or bacon, simmered to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or something to keep you satisfied on a chilly day, this recipe is a nutritious powerhouse that offers both deep flavor and health benefits in every bite.
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
1 Hour 30 Minutes
Servings
6 Persons
Diet Type
Gluten-Free
Difficulty
Easy
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why This Recipe Works
Ingredients for Recipe
2 cups dried split peas: Be sure to rinse and pick over the peas before cooking to remove any debris.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds a mild sweetness and forms the flavor base of the soup.
2 medium carrots, sliced: Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
2 celery stalks, diced: Provides a fresh, crunchy texture and balances the soup’s richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: For depth of flavor, but be careful not to burn it.
1 ham hock or 1 cup cooked ham, diced: Adds a rich, smoky flavor. If vegetarian, you can use a vegetable broth and add more seasoning for flavor.
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Homemade stock adds the best flavor, but store-bought works well too.
1 bay leaf: Enhances the savory flavor profile of the soup.
1 teaspoon thyme: A perfect herb to complement the split peas and ham.
Salt & pepper, to taste: Adjust seasoning at the end for the perfect balance.
Olive oil (optional): For sautéing the vegetables, but you can skip if you’re using ham with fat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Split Peas: Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly, removing any stones or debris. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Ham and Broth: Stir in the diced ham (or ham hock) and let it cook for a couple of minutes. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, and split peas. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally, and remove the ham hock once the meat is tender enough to shred.
- Shred the Ham (if using ham hock): Once the ham hock is tender, remove it from the soup, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bones and skin.
- Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.
Chef’s Insight: Simmer slowly for a creamy texture and smoky depth. Adjust seasoning at the end to perfect the flavor.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Split peas absorb a lot of liquid as they cook, so add more broth or water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
Always taste your soup as it simmers. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Sauté your vegetables just until they’re tender, not mushy. Overcooking can make the soup too soft and lacking texture.
Split peas take time to break down and thicken the soup. Don’t rush the simmering process; this step adds richness and flavor.
Serving, Nutrition, Storage, Reheating & Freezing Guide
This classic split pea soup is a wholesome meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. Rich in protein and fiber, it’s a satisfying option for lunch or dinner. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much.
Classic Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried split peas
- 1 medium Onion
- 2 medium Carrots
- 2 stalks Celery stalks
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 piece Ham hock or cooked ham
- 6 cups Vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 leaf Bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Thyme
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Split Peas: Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly, removing any stones or debris. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Ham and Broth: Stir in the diced ham (or ham hock) and let it cook for a couple of minutes. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, and split peas. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally, and remove the ham hock once the meat is tender enough to shred.
- Shred the Ham (if using ham hock): Once the ham hock is tender, remove it from the soup, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bones and skin.
- Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.
Notes
- Split Pea Prep: Always rinse and pick over split peas before cooking to remove any debris or stones.
- Ham Alternatives: For a vegetarian version, skip the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
- Texture Adjustment: If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Slow Simmering: Don’t rush the cooking process. The peas need time to break down and absorb the flavors.
- Flavor Boost: Feel free to add extra herbs or a dash of hot sauce for added depth and heat, especially if you’re making it vegetarian.
- Storage: This soup tastes even better the next day and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
FAQs
Classic split pea soup is a comforting, nutritious dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any season. With rich flavor from the ham, vegetables, and split peas, it’s a meal that will warm both your body and soul. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to share your experience with me—whether you added your own twist or kept it classic, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Happy cooking!
