Description
Hearty split pea soup with ham delivers comforting warmth straight from classic American kitchens. Rich green depths packed with smoky ham and tender vegetables promise a satisfying meal that connects you to wholesome home cooking traditions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried split peas
- 1 lb ham, diced
- 1 ham bone (optional)
Vegetables:
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse split peas under cold water, removing any debris or discolored peas, and set aside to drain completely.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, adding chopped onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until vegetables become soft and fragrant, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add diced ham and ham bone (if using) to the vegetable mixture, allowing the meat to slightly brown and release its savory flavors.
- Pour in chicken broth and water, then introduce rinsed split peas, bay leaves, dried thyme, and black pepper to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low, covering the pot and allowing the soup to simmer gently for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the ham bone and bay leaves; taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and reach an ideal eating temperature.
Notes
- Rinse peas meticulously to remove any stones or discolored legumes, ensuring a clean and high-quality soup base.
- Sauté vegetables slowly to develop a rich, deep flavor foundation that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, allowing you to season the soup precisely to your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, swap ham with smoked paprika and additional root vegetables to maintain a robust, smoky profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg