Print

Classic Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham

A close-up of a thick, hearty pea soup served in a white bowl, featuring visible chunks of carrot and ham.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this classic, thick, and comforting split pea soup using a ham bone or diced ham. It is a hearty soup recipe perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 pound smoked ham hock or leftover ham bone
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Water, as needed

Instructions

  1. Rinse the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Discard any small stones or debris.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed split peas, broth, ham hock (or diced ham), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and pepper.
  3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about two inches.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are very tender and have broken down, creating a thick soup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. If using a ham hock, remove it once the soup is done. Shred any meat from the bone and return the meat to the pot. Discard the bone and bay leaf.
  7. If the soup is too thick, add small amounts of water until you reach your desired consistency. If it is too thin, remove the lid and simmer for another 15 minutes to reduce.
  8. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary. Remember that ham adds saltiness.
  9. Serve hot. This is a budget friendly soup that makes great high protein meal prep.

Notes

  • For a faster cooking time, use an Instant Pot: Combine all ingredients (use 6 cups of liquid total) and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
  • If you do not have ham, you can make a vegan split pea soup by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
  • This soup thickens considerably as it cools. Reheat leftovers with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/hearty-pea-soup-classic-split-pea-soup/