Comforting Classic Split Pea Soup

This comforting classic split pea soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for cold days. Made with dried split peas, vegetables, and ham, it’s a flavorful soup that’s simple to prepare and rich in both taste and nutrients. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or as the main dish, this split pea soup is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for a cozy meal on cold days, offering a comforting and satisfying flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option.
• Customizable: Can be made with or without ham, and you can add other vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Dried split peas
• Carrots
• Celery
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ham hock or diced ham (optional)
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Bay leaf
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter

Directions

1. Prep the ingredients: Rinse the dried split peas under cold water and set them aside. Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Add the peas and broth: Stir in the split peas and add the chicken or vegetable broth. Drop in the bay leaf and ham hock (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer the soup: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and the soup thickens.
5. Adjust seasoning: Remove the ham hock (if used), shred the meat, and return it to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Optional toppings include fresh herbs, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe typically serves 6-8 people.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1-1.5 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like potatoes or spinach for more texture.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or smoked sausage in place of ham to give the soup a delicious smoky flavor.
• Creamy Texture: For a smoother soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender or a countertop blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cumin or curry powder to give the soup a spiced twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
• Freezer: Split pea soup freezes well! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in individual portions.

FAQs

How do I thicken my split pea soup?

Split pea soup naturally thickens as the peas break down during cooking. If you want it even thicker, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer time, or blend part of the soup.

Can I make split pea soup without ham?

Yes! You can omit the ham for a vegetarian version, and it will still be flavorful, especially if you use vegetable broth and add more herbs or spices.

Can I use frozen peas instead of dried split peas?

No, frozen peas will not work the same way. Dried split peas break down and thicken the soup, which frozen peas won’t do.

How long does split pea soup last in the fridge?

It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes, split pea soup freezes very well. Make sure to cool the soup before freezing, and it can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with split pea soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a simple salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Can I use a slow cooker to make split pea soup?

Yes, you can cook it in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours.

Why are my peas not softening?

Old peas or hard water can sometimes cause split peas to not soften properly. Make sure you’re using fresh split peas and consider adding a pinch of baking soda to the cooking water if you’re using hard water.

Can I use bacon instead of ham?

Yes, bacon adds a smoky flavor to the soup. Cook the bacon first, remove it from the pot, and then sauté the vegetables in the bacon fat for extra flavor.

Is split pea soup gluten-free?

Yes, split pea soup is naturally gluten-free, as long as the broth you use is certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Comforting classic split pea soup is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re making it with ham or a vegetarian option, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal that can be enjoyed any time. With simple ingredients and a versatile recipe, it’s a great choice for meal prep, freezing, and customizing to your preferences.

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