Split pea soup is a timeless dish known for its rich, savory flavors and hearty texture. Often served on cold days, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal that satisfies both hunger and the need for comfort. Made with dried split peas, vegetables, and often a touch of ham or bacon, this dish is as nutritious as it is filling. The beauty of split pea soup lies in its simplicity and versatility—it’s easy to make, and the flavor only improves as it simmers, making it a perfect dish for meal prepping.
In this split pea soup recipe, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make a hearty bowl of soup from scratch. You’ll learn how to properly cook split peas to get the perfect texture, which ingredients to choose for maximum flavor, and how to make this soup both rich and satisfying. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or customizing it with your spin, this soup is sure to be a family favorite.
Table of contents
Essential Ingredients for Split Pea Soup
For the perfect split pea soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These items come together to create a smooth, rich broth full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups dried split peas: The main ingredient, split peas forms the base of this soup.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the broth.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Provides a touch of sweetness and a burst of color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds freshness and crunch to the soup.
- 1 bay leaf: Essential for adding fragrance and flavor to the broth.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The base of the soup, adding savory flavor.
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham: Adds a smoky, rich flavor that elevates the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a savory base for the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
These ingredients combine to form a rich, hearty soup that is both nourishing and satisfying.
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Split Pea Soup
Preparing the Split Peas
Before you start making the soup, rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cold water. Remove any debris or damaged peas. This step is important as it ensures your peas are clean and ready for cooking. Once rinsed, set the peas aside.
Cooking the Vegetables and Ham
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. The onions should turn translucent, while the carrots and celery should retain their slight crunch. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.
Now, add the smoked ham hock (or diced ham) to the pot. The ham hock imparts a smoky flavor to the soup, and if you’re using diced ham, it will provide smaller, more evenly distributed bits of meat throughout the soup.
Adding the Split Peas and Broth
Once the vegetables and ham are ready, add the rinsed split peas to the pot, followed by the broth. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure it covers the peas and vegetables. Add the bay leaf and bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing the soup to simmer gently for about 1 hour, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
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Simmering the Soup
During the simmering process, stir the soup occasionally. You’ll notice that the split peas will break down, creating a smooth texture. If the soup gets too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Shredding the Ham (Optional)
If you used a ham hock, carefully remove it from the soup once it’s done cooking. Use two forks to shred the meat, and discard the bones and skin. Return the shredded meat to the soup. If you use diced ham, you can skip this step. The shredded ham adds an extra layer of texture and smokiness to the soup.
Final Touches
Once the peas are tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup again and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth or leave it as is for a chunkier version.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Split Pea Soup
Can I use yellow split peas instead of green split peas?
Yes, you can use yellow split peas instead of green split peas. Both types of peas cook similarly and result in a delicious, hearty soup. The main difference is that yellow split peas have a slightly milder flavor and a lighter color, which will affect the final look of the soup.
Can I make split pea soup without ham?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian split pea soup by omitting the ham. Instead, you can add more vegetables or use smoked paprika to add a smoky flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.
How long does split pea soup last in the fridge?
Split pea soup can last in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container. The soup may thicken as it cools, so you can add a little extra broth or water when reheating.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes, you can freeze split pea soup. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then heat it on the stove, adding more broth if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
Additional Tips for Perfect Split Pea Soup
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute the ham hock with vegetarian bacon or smoked tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also replace carrots with sweet potatoes for a slight sweetness in the soup.
- Thickening the Soup: If your soup is too thin, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender, or let it simmer uncovered for a little longer to thicken.
- Adding Flavor: For a slightly spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick it.
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Conclusion
This split pea soup recipe is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of year, but especially comforting during cold months. With its rich flavor, smoky ham, and creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or adding your variations, split pea soup is easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy it as a main meal or as a side to a simple sandwich.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results with us! If you love this soup, explore more hearty and comforting recipes on our site. From vegetable soups to savory stews, we have a variety of delicious dishes to keep you cozy and satisfied.