This comforting split pea soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With hearty split peas and a tasty ham bone, it’s packed with flavor and nutrition.
I love how it turns simple ingredients into a delicious meal. Plus, it makes the kitchen smell amazing while it cooks! It’s perfect with some crusty bread on the side.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham Bone: The star of the show! Look for a large ham bone with some meat still attached, which adds lots of flavor. If you don’t have a ham bone, smoked turkey or a store-bought ham hock can work too.
Split Peas: Dried split peas are essential for this soup’s texture. If you’re unable to find split peas, lentils can serve as a decent substitute, but they’ll cook faster and change the texture a bit.
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery bring sweetness and depth. If you’re out of any, feel free to experiment. Leeks, parsnips, or bell peppers can be tasty alternatives!
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness. You can also replace it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or simply use water, though broth adds a lot more flavor.
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and bay leaf are classic, but you can swap thyme for oregano or rosemary if you prefer. The smoked paprika or liquid smoke is fun for a smoky flavor, so don’t skip it if you like that idea!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Has the Perfect Consistency?
The key to achieving the right consistency is all in the simmering process. As the split peas cook, they will break down and thicken the soup naturally. Keep an eye on the liquid level—if it gets too thick during cooking, just add a bit of hot water or broth to loosen it up.
- Start with enough liquid (6 cups) for the initial boil.
- Check every so often, and stir to prevent sticking.
- Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours; this is where the magic happens.
Remember, once you add the frozen peas at the end, they will provide some freshness without thickening it too much. Enjoy your soup adventure!
How to Make Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 large ham bone with some meat attached
- 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and then 1.5 to 2 hours for simmering. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes before you can enjoy your hearty soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by taking a large pot or Dutch oven. Add in the ham bone, rinsed split peas, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and your chosen broth or water. Stir everything together gently to mix.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Watch closely as the mixture heats up and brings it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. This process will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, so feel free to relax a bit during this time. Just make sure to stir occasionally!
3. Check and Adjust:
While your soup is simmering, the split peas will cook down and help thicken the soup. Keep an eye on the liquid level—if it looks like it’s getting too thick, just add some hot water or extra broth as needed!
4. Add Ham and Final Ingredients:
After 1.5 to 2 hours, the peas should be nice and soft. Carefully remove the ham bone from the pot and let it cool a bit on a plate. Once cool enough to handle, pull any remaining meat off the bone, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the soup.
5. Stir in Frozen Peas:
Now, add in the frozen peas to the pot and let them heat through by simmering for another 5-10 minutes. They’ll add a pleasant color and sweetness to your soup!
6. Season and Garnish:
After the peas are heated, remove the bay leaf from the soup. Season it with salt and black pepper to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in the smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for that delicious, smoky flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Don’t forget to add a little sprinkle of black pepper on top for that extra kick!
Enjoy your hearty and comforting split pea soup with ham bone!
Can I Use Dried Peas Instead of Fresh Peas?
Yes! Dried split peas are essential for this recipe, as they break down and thicken the soup during cooking. The frozen peas added at the end are just for a fresh touch and texture, but they are not necessary for the soup to be delicious.
What If I Don’t Have a Ham Bone?
No worries! If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use a smoked turkey leg or a ham hock for similar flavor. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add some smoked paprika for that earthy, smoky taste.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove over low heat or use the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze Split Pea Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.