Ham Split Pea Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that warms the soul on chilly days. This thick and flavorful soup features tender split peas and smoky ham, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a dish to share with family or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into this delicious homemade treat!

Why You’ll Love This Ham Split Pea Soup

There are countless reasons to love this Ham Split Pea Soup. First, it’s a great way to use leftover ham, turning scraps into a delicious meal. Second, the smoky flavor from the ham enhances the earthy split peas, creating a wonderful flavor profile. Third, this soup is packed with nutrients, offering a healthy meal option. It’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing anyone to whip it up in their kitchen. Finally, the recipe offers versatility, with options for split pea soup with ham hocks or a creamy ham split pea soup for those who prefer a richer texture.

Ingredients for Ham Split Pea Soup

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 large carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed
8 cups chicken or ham broth
2 cups water
1 ham bone (or 2 cups diced ham)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic croutons for serving (optional)

How to Make Ham Split Pea Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in your pot on medium heat, then cook onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until soft.
Step 2: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until it smells really good and turns a bit golden.
Step 3: Stir in split peas, broth, water, ham bone, bay leaves, and thyme until everything is mixed together really well.
Step 4: Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil, then turn to low and simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring sometimes.
Step 5: Take out the ham bone, pull the meat off the bone, throw away the bone, and put the shredded ham back in the pot.
Step 6: Take out bay leaves and throw them away, then add salt and pepper until it tastes good to you.
Step 7: Pour hot soup into bowls and serve right away with crusty bread or croutons if you want. ENJOY!!!

Cozy Ham Split Pea Soup: 7 Steps to Comfort - Ham Split Pea Soup - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ham Split Pea Soup

Keep these in mind:

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
For a thicker texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
Use the best ham for split pea soup to enhance the flavor.
Consider adding a splash of vinegar before serving for a tangy kick.

Best Ways to Serve Ham Split Pea Soup

There are many delightful ways to enjoy this soup. Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, or top it with garlic croutons for added crunch. Pair it with a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal, or serve it as a starter for a larger dinner gathering.

How to Store and Reheat Ham Split Pea Soup

To store, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. This soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Split Pea Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Ham Split Pea Soup?

The secret lies in using a good quality ham bone or diced ham, as this infuses the soup with rich flavor. Additionally, allowing the soup to simmer slowly helps the split peas to soften and absorb all the tasty broth.

Can I make Ham Split Pea Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is ideal for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead, as the flavors deepen and meld together beautifully after sitting overnight in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ham Split Pea Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you rinse the split peas thoroughly before use to remove any debris. Also, be careful not to overcook the soup, as split peas can become mushy if left too long.

Variations of Ham Split Pea Soup You Can Try

Feel free to customize your soup! For a ham and split pea stew, add diced potatoes or different vegetables like spinach. For a spicy twist, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also experiment with different types of ham, including smoked or honey-baked variations.

Cozy Ham Split Pea Soup: 7 Steps to Comfort - Ham Split Pea Soup - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Ciabatta Bread or Roasted Carrot Soup. You can also explore Homemade Tomato Sauce for a perfect pairing!

For more information on the health benefits of split peas, you can visit Healthline.

Cozy Ham Split Pea Soup: 7 Steps to Comfort

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 105 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Thick, hearty soup with tender split peas and smoky ham that’s perfect when it’s cold outside, and you want comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 large carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed
8 cups chicken or ham broth
2 cups water
1 ham bone (or 2 cups diced ham)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic croutons for serving (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat olive oil in your pot on medium heat, then cook onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until it smells really good and turns a bit golden.
Stir in split peas, broth, water, ham bone, bay leaves, and thyme until everything is mixed together really well.
Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil, then turn to low and simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring sometimes.
Take out the ham bone, pull the meat off the bone, throw away the bone, and put the shredded ham back in the pot.
Take out bay leaves and throw them away, then add salt and pepper until it tastes good to you.
Pour hot soup into bowls and serve right away with crusty bread or croutons if you want. ENJOY!!!