This warm split pea soup with a tasty ham bone is the perfect comfort food. It’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavors that make you feel right at home!
There’s nothing better than a bowl of this soup on a chilly day. I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything in a pot and let it do its thing. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried Green Split Peas: These are essential for the soup’s texture and heartiness. If you’re short on time, you can use canned split peas, but reduce cooking time significantly.
Ham Bone: A ham bone gives the soup a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have one, try smoked sausage, turkey leg, or a piece of smoked bacon for a similar taste.
Onion: Onions form the base flavor. Yellow onions are preferred, but white or even shallots work too. If you’re avoiding onions, try leeks or green onion tops.
Carrots and Celery: Both add sweetness and depth. You can substitute with parsnips for a different twist or use more root vegetables like potatoes if needed.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: I love using low-sodium broth for better control over salt. Vegetable broth or even water can be used instead, just adjust seasoning as required.
How Do I Ensure the Split Peas Cook Properly?
Cooking split peas is pretty straightforward, but there’s a trick to getting them just right! First, always rinse them until the water runs clear. This removes any dust or debris and helps them cook evenly.
- Use a large pot to allow room for the soup to bubble without overflowing.
- Simmer them on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- If you find the soup is too thick, add more water or broth gradually. It’s easier to add than to take away!
Check for tenderness by tasting; they should be soft but not mushy. Enjoy the comforting aroma while it simmers!
Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 large ham bone with some meat on it (about 2-3 lbs)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty split pea soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. Just set aside time for the simmering part, and while you wait, enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Split Peas:
Start by rinsing the dried green split peas under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step is essential to remove any dust or impurities. After rinsing, set them aside for later use.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant.
3. Add Garlic:
Once the veggies are softened, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the rinsed split peas, the ham bone, water (or chicken broth), bay leaves, and dried thyme. Give everything a good mix.
5. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the peas are tender.
6. Check the Consistency:
As the soup cooks, the split peas will break down, thickening the soup. If it gets too thick for your liking, feel free to add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Finish Up with Ham:
Once the peas are tender and the soup is thick, carefully remove the ham bone. Strip the remaining meat from the bone, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return that delicious meat back to the soup to enhance its flavor.
8. Season and Serve:
Now, remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste your soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Enjoy enhancing the flavors to make it just right!
9. Garnish and Enjoy!
Ladle the hearty split pea soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy meal, bringing happiness to your table with its smoky ham flavor and creamy texture!
Can I Use Split Peas That Are Not Green?
Yes, you can use yellow split peas instead of green! They have a slightly different flavor but will work just as well in this recipe. The cooking time will remain the same.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze Split Pea Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
What If I Don’t Have a Ham Bone?
If you don’t have a ham bone, you can substitute it with smoked sausage, turkey leg, or a few strips of bacon. These will add a similar smoky flavor, keeping the soup delicious and satisfying!