Looking for a comforting and hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this delicious split pea soup recipe! With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of split peas, ham, and fresh herbs creates a savory and satisfying flavor profile.
- Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup can be ready in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch of this soup and enjoy it throughout the week for a convenient and nutritious meal option.
Ingredient Notes:
- Olive oil: Adds richness and depth to the soup.
- Yellow onion, celery, and garlic: These aromatics provide a flavorful base for the soup.
- Chicken broth and water: Create a savory liquid for the soup.
- Split peas: The star ingredient that gives the soup its hearty texture.
- Bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
- Ham bone or ham shanks: Adds a meaty flavor to the soup.
- Carrots: Provide a pop of color and sweetness.
- Fresh parsley: Optional garnish for a fresh touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and water, then add split peas, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the ham bone or shanks, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour.
- Stir in carrots and continue to cook until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and return to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Helpful Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead.
- Blend the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
- Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use a meaty ham bone for maximum flavor.
- Allow the soup to sit for a few hours or overnight before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this split pea soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or a glass of white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to thin out the consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of meat in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute ham with cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a different flavor profile. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. - Can I use canned peas instead of dried split peas?
While canned peas can be used in a pinch, dried split peas provide a better texture and flavor for this soup.
Conclusion:
Warm up with a bowl of comforting split pea soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!
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Split Pea Soup
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Warm and hearty Split Pea Soup made with tender split peas, vegetables, and flavorful ham. This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 1/4 cups chopped celery
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 4 cups unsalted chicken broth
- 4 cups water
- 1 (16 oz) bag dried split peas, picked over and rinsed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 1/2 tsp chopped fresh thyme, or 1/2 tsp dried
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 lb meaty ham bone or ham shanks
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté vegetables: Add onions, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add broth and water: Pour in chicken broth and water. Stir in split peas, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Add ham bone or shanks. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add carrots: Stir in chopped carrots and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Remove ham bone: Remove ham bone, shred meat, and return to the soup.
- Season and serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
- This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg