Split Pea And Ham Soup
Warm and satisfying, split pea and ham soup is a classic dish that brings together the earthy flavors of split peas and the savory notes of ham. Perfect for chilly days, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to make. With its rich, creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into this recipe and bring warmth to your table!
Ingredients
– 1 cup split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup), this soup contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 5g
– Fiber: 10g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rinsed split peas and stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
7. Cover and simmer for about 40-50 minutes, or until peas are tender.
8. Add diced ham to the pot and stir to combine.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Remove the bay leaf before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ham with turkey or smoked sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using old split peas can result in a mushy texture.
- Not rinsing the peas may lead to a gritty soup.
- Overcooking can make the soup too thick; watch the cooking time.
- Forgetting the bay leaf can diminish flavor.
- Not seasoning properly can leave the soup bland.
Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor; try thyme or rosemary.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth as needed.
- Serve with toppings like croutons or extra ham for added texture.
FAQs
Can I make split pea and ham soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How can I thicken my split pea soup?
To thicken the soup, you can blend a portion of it or add more split peas. Cooking it longer will also help thicken the consistency.
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
Smoked ham or leftover holiday ham works best, as it adds a rich flavor to the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
Is split pea soup healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious option. Just be mindful of added salt in the broth and ham.
Conclusion
Split pea and ham soup is a hearty, nourishing dish that’s perfect for any season. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s a great way to warm up on a cold day. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy every spoonful!

Split Pea And Ham Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup cooked ham diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add rinsed split peas and stir well to combine.
- Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 40-50 minutes, or until peas are tender.
- Add diced ham to the pot and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.