Split Pea Soup with Ham and Vegetables Recipe

Introduction

Split pea soup is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Made with tender peas and smoky ham, it’s a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried split peas (yellow or green, about 14 ounces)
• 1 meaty ham bone (or 2 cups leftover ham, diced)
• 4 cups water (or additional broth if desired)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 1 large yellow onion (diced)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• Salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Sort through the split peas to remove any debris. Rinse them well and drain.
2. Step 2: In a large pot, combine the peas, ham bone (or diced ham), water, chicken broth, dried parsley, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 1 hour.
3. Step 3: Add diced celery, carrots, onion, black pepper, dried thyme, and salt. Cover and simmer for another 45 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the ham bone, chop any meat from it, then return the meat to the soup. Continue cooking uncovered until the soup thickens and the peas break down, about 20 minutes more.
5. Step 5: Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and additional pepper as desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup after cooking.
• Substitute smoked turkey leg for the ham bone for a different smoky flavor.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end to brighten the flavors.

Storage

Store leftover split pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use green split peas instead of yellow?

Yes, both yellow and green split peas work well and produce a similar flavor and texture.

Do I have to use a ham bone?

No, you can use diced ham or even skip the ham for a vegetarian version—just increase the vegetable broth and season accordingly.