Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This thick, creamy soup combines hearty split peas, fresh vegetables, and tender pieces of ham for a satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, Split Pea Soup offers both nutrition and taste in every spoonful. Its unique blend of spices and ingredients makes it a standout choice for dinner or lunch, ensuring everyone will look forward to leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber and protein, this soup helps keep you full and satisfied.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, even beginner cooks can whip up a delicious pot of soup.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or additional ham for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal meal prep option.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and ham creates a rich taste that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Split Pea Soup, gather the necessary tools for efficient preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even cooking without burning the soup at the bottom.
• Sharp knife: Helps dice vegetables quickly and safely, making prep faster.
• Blender: Optional but useful for creating a smooth texture if desired.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare delicious Split Pea Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups finely diced onion (2 medium onions)
• 1 cup finely diced carrot (2 to 3 large carrots)
• 1 cup finely diced celery (3 to 4 stalks)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (4 cloves)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1-1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed; old split peas may not soften)
• 2 small bay leaves (or 1 large)
• 1 meaty ham bone (or ham hocks; more ham if desired)
• 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Hearty buttered bread (for serving)

How to Make Split Pea Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper. Cook until the veggies are softened and the onion turns golden brown—about 5 to 8 minutes. Then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about one minute before mixing in rinsed split peas.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add the ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth into the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer uncovered for about 60 to 90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that split peas don’t stick to the bottom. Cook until peas are tender and soup has thickened to your liking. If it becomes too thick during cooking, add a little more broth as needed.

Step 3: Finish the Soup

When ready to serve, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred any meat left on it and return this shredded ham back into the soup. Make sure to discard any bones or excess fat. Remove bay leaves from the pot as well. For a creamier texture, blend about two cups of soup until smooth before returning it to the pot. Mix well and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed.

Step 4: Serve

Ladle your hearty Split Pea Soup into bowls. Serve hot with hearty buttered bread on the side. A sprinkle of fresh thyme can add extra flavor if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup

Serving Split Pea Soup is a delightful experience, as its rich flavors and creamy texture pair well with various accompaniments. Here are some great suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the soup.
• Thyme Leaves: Adding thyme gives an earthy note that complements the soup’s flavor.

With Bread

• Hearty Buttered Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: The garlic flavor adds a delicious twist and pairs wonderfully with the soup.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar provides a creamy richness that enhances the dish.

With Protein

• Extra Ham: Add more chopped ham for an extra meaty bite.
• Bacon Crumbles: Crispy bacon adds texture and smokiness to each spoonful.

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How to Perfect Split Pea Soup

To achieve the ultimate Split Pea Soup, consider these helpful tips for a smooth and flavorful dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value.
• Rinse Split Peas Thoroughly: This removes any debris and ensures even cooking.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Blend for Creaminess: Pureeing part of the soup creates a velvety texture while keeping some peas intact for bite.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper towards the end of cooking for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup

Pairing side dishes with your comforting bowl of Split Pea Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh greens offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty cheese and crispy bread make a satisfying pairing with the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add depth and color to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains or meat, making them a filling side.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Split Pea Soup, even small errors can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften properly while cooking. Always check the packaging date and use fresh ones for the best texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper as needed for a flavorful finish.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending part of the soup adds creaminess. Don’t skip this step if you want that thick, velvety texture!
• Overcooking the soup: Cooking too long can cause the split peas to become mushy. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Ignoring the ham bone: The ham bone adds rich flavor. If you’re using leftover ham, be sure to include it in your recipe for depth.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Split Pea Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Split Pea Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered pot for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Split Pea Soup:

Can I make Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I know when my split peas are done cooking?

Split peas are done when they’re soft and have mostly broken down, creating a thick consistency.

Can I add other vegetables to my Split Pea Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is there a way to make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Split Pea Soup in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

Split Pea Soup is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can tweak ingredients based on what you have or prefer. Whether you enjoy it with bread or on its own, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction. Give it a try and discover your personal favorite twist!