“Your split pea soup is bubbling away beautifully!” I exclaimed, catching the delightful aromas wafting from the kitchen. This homemade split pea soup is comfort food at its finest, effortlessly bringing warmth and joy to any chilly day. It’s not just hearty and protein-packed; this dish is a celebration of wholesome ingredients like tender split peas, savory ham, and fresh vegetables all simmered to perfection. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table with family or simply looking for an easy meal to warm your soul, this recipe is perfect for you! Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—it can be made on the stovetop, in a crockpot, or even the Instant Pot for those busy weeknights. Are you ready to discover how to create this ultimate winter wonder in your own kitchen?
Why is Split Pea Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting and Hearty: This homemade split pea soup wraps you in warmth, perfect for chilly days.
Simplicity: With straightforward ingredients and methods, anyone can master this cozy classic.
Rich Flavor: Infused with savory ham and fresh veggies, each bowl bursts with deliciousness.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether using the stovetop, crockpot, or Instant Pot, you can tailor the cooking to your schedule. Explore more warming options like Sausage Kale Soup or Vegetarian Lentil Soup for your meal lineup!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
Split Pea Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables perfectly.
- Chopped Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and depth to your split pea soup.
- Chopped Celery – Contributes flavor and a delightful crunch.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances the aroma and flavor profile beautifully.
- Unsalted Chicken Broth – Forms the savory soup base, providing essential flavor.
- Water – Adjusts the soup’s consistency and aids in cooking the peas.
For the Main Ingredients
- Dried Split Peas – The star ingredient that creates the soup’s thick consistency; remember to rinse before use!
- Bay Leaves – Infuses a subtle earthy flavor that elevates the dish.
- Chopped Fresh Thyme – Adds an aromatic herbaceous note; you can substitute with dried thyme (use less).
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for that perfect balance.
- Meaty Ham Bone (or Ham Shank) – Key flavor component; the richness brings this split pea soup to life.
- Chopped Carrots – Added for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
For Finishing Touches
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – Optional for garnish, adds a fresh pop and presentation.
This ingredient list forms the foundation of a deliciously hearty split pea soup that’s sure to warm your soul on cold days!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Split Pea Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and celery, sautéing for about 3 minutes until they soften and turn translucent. Their sweet aroma will fill the air, signaling that you’re on the right track to a hearty split pea soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. You want the garlic to release its wonderful aroma without browning. This step adds depth of flavor to your homemade split pea soup, setting the stage for the rich blend of ingredients that follows.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Peas
Pour in 6 cups of unsalted chicken broth and 2 cups of water, giving everything a good stir. Next, add 1 pound of rinsed dried split peas, 2 bay leaves, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring your flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Nestle the Ham
Carefully nestle a meaty ham bone into the soup, ensuring it sinks below the surface. Increase the heat to high until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it gently simmer for 60 to 80 minutes until both the peas and ham are tender, creating a flavorful base for your split pea soup.
Step 5: Shred the Ham
Once the ham is cool enough to handle, remove it from the soup and let it cool for about 10 minutes on a cutting board. Shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces, making sure to reserve some for adding back into the soup later, to keep it moist and delicious.
Step 6: Incorporate Carrots
Stir in 2 chopped carrots to the pot, cover again, and continue simmering for an additional 30 minutes. During this time, the peas will mostly break down, thickening the soup and allowing that natural sweetness from the carrots to infuse the flavors of your comforting split pea soup.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Return the shredded ham to the pot, stirring to combine. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to meld the flavors together. Your hearty split pea soup is now ready to serve!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the split pea soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. This warming dish is perfect for chilly days and pairs beautifully with crusty bread. Relish the comforting flavors and enjoy cozy moments around your dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
These homemade split pea soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop vegetables and prepare the seasoning mix up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Furthermore, the cooked soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage; just remember it may thicken while chilling—reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the soup on the stovetop until warmed through, ensuring it’s just as delicious and comforting as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Split Pea Soup
Rinse Your Peas: Always rinse your dried split peas before cooking to remove any debris or impurities that can affect the flavor.
Sautéing Matters: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Taking the time to sauté the vegetables enhances the soup’s depth, creating a rich flavor.
Ham Bone Tip: When using a ham bone, reserve some meat to add back later for extra moisture and texture, keeping your split pea soup deliciously hearty.
Adjust Consistency: If your soup thickens too much after refrigerating, simply stir in a little water or broth when reheating to achieve the desired texture.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup as it cooks, especially after adding the ham, to ensure perfect seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference!
What to Serve with Homemade Split Pea Soup
Warm your heart with the perfect pairs that elevate this winter favorite into a complete meal.
Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of delicious soup. The contrasting textures complement the creamy soup beautifully.
Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, making each bite a delightful experience. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for an extra zing.
Garlic Bread: Infuse your meal with flavor using buttery garlic bread. Its crunchy texture balances the rich and creamy split pea soup, crafting an irresistible combination.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing enhances the comfort factor. The gooey cheese melts in your mouth, creating a nostalgic, satisfying blend with the warm soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring a sweet and savory touch to the table, enriching the meal’s overall taste and presentation. Their roasted flavor harmonizes remarkably with the earthiness of the soup.
Apple Crisp: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a warm apple crisp as dessert. The sweetness and warmth of the apples provide a delightful contrast to the soup’s savory flavors, leaving everyone feeling cozy and content.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refresh with a cool glass of iced tea or lemonade. Their tangy notes cleanse the palate, balancing the richness of the split pea soup perfectly.
These delightful pairings will complete your dining experience, making your split pea soup shine even brighter!
Split Pea Soup Variations You’ll Love
Feel free to get creative with your split pea soup by trying these delicious twists that cater to various tastes and dietary needs!
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the ham bone with smoked paprika for a delightful, smoky flavor without the meat.
Substituting the ham not only makes this soup vegetarian but also allows the spices to shine. The smoky paprika gives a surprising depth to every spoonful!Dairy-Free Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter take on this classic.
This version is just as comforting and can include coconut milk for a creamy texture. You’ll enjoy a bowl that’s rich with flavors without any dairy!Hearty Twist: Add diced potatoes or butternut squash for extra heartiness and a touch of sweetness.
Mix in these veggies during the simmering phase for a satisfying and vibrant soup that fills you up with wholesome goodness.Spicy Kick: Incorporate a chopped jalapeño or sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a fiery touch.
This variation doesn’t just add heat; it brings warmth and liveliness to your soup, making each bite exciting!Smoky Ham: Use leftover smoked ham instead of a ham bone to truly amplify that savory flavor.
The smoky richness permeates the soup beautifully, making it a go-to comfort food that your family will adore.Texture Perfection: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency, leaving some peas whole for texture.
This balance creates a deeply comforting experience, with every bowl offering delightful contrasts in texture.Fresh Herb Boost: Toss in your favorite fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving for a fragrant finish.
These fresh touches brighten the dish and elevate the overall flavor profile, making it feel freshly made!
For other hearty soup options that magically warm the soul, be sure to try my Vegetarian Lentil Soup or Sausage Kale Soup. Let your creativity flow and enjoy customizing this comforting bowl of goodness!
How to Store and Freeze Split Pea Soup
Fridge: Store your split pea soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Split pea soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When warming up, add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare your split pea soup in advance and store it for later; just remember to cool it properly before refrigerating or freezing.
Split Pea Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of split peas should I use for the soup?
I recommend using dried green or yellow split peas as both yield a flavorful and creamy soup. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
How long can I store homemade split pea soup in the fridge?
Your split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to help preserve its flavor and freshness.
Can I freeze split pea soup, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your split pea soup, ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for the soup to expand. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
What should I do if my split pea soup is too thick?
If your soup becomes overly thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit of water or broth while reheating until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about personal taste, so adjust it as you go!
Is split pea soup safe for my pets?
While split peas themselves are not toxic to pets, it’s best to avoid sharing any soup that contains seasoning, garlic, or ham, as these can be harmful to animals. Stick with plain split peas if you want to treat your furry friend!
How can I adjust the seasoning in my split pea soup?
Taste your soup throughout the cooking process, especially after adding the ham, as it can vary in saltiness. If it needs more flavor, you can add salt, freshly ground black pepper, or even a dash of smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Hearty Split Pea Soup: A Cozy Classic for Chilly Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and celery, sautéing for about 3 minutes until they soften and turn translucent.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 6 cups of unsalted chicken broth and 2 cups of water, giving everything a good stir. Next, add 1 pound of rinsed dried split peas, 2 bay leaves, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme.
- Carefully nestle a meaty ham bone into the soup, increase the heat to high until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it gently simmer for 60 to 80 minutes.
- Once the ham is cool enough to handle, remove it from the soup and let it cool for about 10 minutes on a cutting board. Shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Stir in 2 chopped carrots to the pot, cover again, and continue simmering for an additional 30 minutes.
- Return the shredded ham to the pot, stirring to combine. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Ladle the split pea soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
