This creamy and hearty Split Pea Soup is the perfect balance of rich flavors and healthy ingredients. The earthy split peas meld beautifully with the savory aromatics and herbs, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the year.
The smooth texture of the soup can be enhanced with a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty lift. Paired with crusty bread, it’s a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, ideal for cozy nights or when you’re looking for something nourishing and wholesome.
Full Recipe:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups split peas, rinsed and drained
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in split peas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard before serving.
- Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Split Pea Soup: A Hearty and Nutritious Comfort Dish
Split pea soup is a timeless dish that has stood the test of time for its hearty flavors and nutritious benefits. Whether you have leftover holiday ham or are just craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup, this recipe offers the perfect combination of vegetables, protein, and a delicious broth. It’s an ideal meal for those colder months or whenever you’re in the mood for a satisfying meal that offers both nutrition and warmth. With a rich, creamy texture and an earthy flavor, split pea soup provides both comfort and a healthy dose of plant-based protein.
What Makes Split Pea Soup So Special?
Split peas, the main ingredient of this soup, are not only affordable but incredibly nutritious. Split peas are dried peas that have been split in half, and unlike other dried beans or legumes, they do not require overnight soaking before cooking. This makes them a convenient choice for a weeknight meal or for when you’re in a hurry but still want a wholesome dish. They cook quickly and, when simmered over a longer period of time, absorb the flavors of the soup, turning into a creamy, tender base. Split peas have a subtle sweetness paired with an earthy flavor, making them a versatile addition to many soups and stews.
Split pea soup is often associated with hearty winter meals, but its versatility means that it can be enjoyed throughout the year. The addition of tender ham, especially from a leftover ham bone, infuses the soup with extra depth of flavor. The bone adds richness and enhances the broth, creating a savory, satisfying base for the split peas. Even if you don’t have a ham bone on hand, ham hocks or diced ham work as great alternatives, still contributing a delightful smoky undertone to the soup.
Nutritional Benefits of Split Peas
Split peas are a powerhouse of nutrition, making this soup an excellent option for anyone looking to boost their fiber and protein intake. They are rich in both fiber and plant-based protein, providing essential nutrients that help maintain muscle health and aid digestion. A bowl of split pea soup can keep you feeling fuller for longer, making it a great choice for those looking for a filling, yet low-calorie meal. This makes it especially beneficial for people trying to manage their weight.
In addition to being rich in protein and fiber, split peas are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. They are high in folate, which is essential for healthy cell function and production, and potassium, which supports heart health. The combination of these nutrients makes split pea soup not only filling but also nourishing for the body, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.
Ham: The Secret to Rich, Flavorful Soup
The ham used in split pea soup is not just an optional add-in; it plays a crucial role in bringing depth and richness to the dish. The best part of the ham for this soup is the bone, as it infuses the broth with savory flavors while also tenderizing the peas as they cook. Ham hocks, which are available in most grocery stores, are another excellent choice because they are already cooked, which makes them convenient to use. You can also add additional diced ham to the soup for an extra layer of meaty texture.
If you don’t have a leftover ham bone, ham hocks can be a great substitute, offering that same delicious smoky flavor that makes split pea soup so comforting. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip the ham altogether and still enjoy a delicious and hearty soup. The split peas provide plenty of flavor and texture on their own, and you can add extra herbs and vegetables to elevate the soup without the meat.
Tips for Making the Best Split Pea Soup
Making the perfect split pea soup requires a few simple tips to ensure it turns out creamy and flavorful. First, be sure to use a heavy-bottomed pot to cook the soup. This will help prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning, especially since they can become quite thick as they cook. Stirring the soup occasionally also helps prevent this and ensures the peas cook evenly.
The cooking time for split pea soup can vary depending on the type of split peas used and the size of the pot. As the soup simmers, you’ll notice the peas beginning to break down and become tender. If you prefer a smoother, creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup after cooking and return it to the pot. This will make the soup even thicker and creamier, while still maintaining the hearty feel of the original ingredients.
The soup should be cooked until the peas are tender, and the ham easily shreds off the bone. The longer you cook the soup, the thicker and more flavorful it will become, so feel free to let it simmer for a longer period to get the perfect consistency. However, if the soup gets too thick, you can always add a bit of water or broth to thin it out to your liking.
Serving Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread for dipping. The soup’s hearty nature makes it filling enough to be a meal by itself, but adding a simple salad or side dish can round it out beautifully. A Caesar salad or a garden salad with fresh greens is a perfect pairing to complement the richness of the soup. Croutons can also be added for extra crunch and texture, or a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil can be used to add creaminess to each bowl.
Storage and Leftovers
One of the best things about split pea soup is that it stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. To store the soup, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If the soup thickens too much as it cools, you can add a bit more broth or water when reheating it. The soup can also be frozen for up to three months, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or for stocking your freezer with comforting meals for later.
Conclusion: Why Split Pea Soup is a Must-Try
Whether you have a ham bone sitting in your fridge after the holidays or you simply want a hearty, nutritious soup to enjoy, split pea soup is the perfect choice. This humble dish is packed with flavor and full of nutritious ingredients like split peas, vegetables, and lean protein from the ham. The rich, creamy texture and earthy flavors make it a comfort food that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and highly customizable to suit your taste preferences. So, whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at your next gathering, split pea soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Additional Variations and Customizations
One of the things that makes split pea soup so versatile is how easily it can be customized to fit your preferences. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or sherry as the soup cooks. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as potatoes, leeks, or parsnips for added depth of flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapenos can add a nice zing to the soup. And for those who prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and replace the broth with a vegetable-based one for a delicious and healthy alternative.
In conclusion, split pea soup is more than just a filling dish—it’s a comforting meal that brings warmth to the soul. It’s an easy and affordable way to enjoy nutritious ingredients and a great option for meal prepping or serving to a crowd. Whether you stick to the traditional ham version or put your own twist on it, this soup is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, get your pot ready, and enjoy a bowl of this heartwarming classic!