Split pea ham soup is one of those dishes that just feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I remember my grandma making this on chilly autumn evenings; the kitchen would fill with the most incredible savory aroma of simmering peas and smoky ham. It’s a timeless classic for a reason, and learning how to make this delicious split pea soup with ham yourself is so rewarding. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and truly an easy split pea soup ham meal that even beginner cooks can master. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Ham
- Incredibly flavorful and hearty taste, thanks to a savory ham bone.
- Super quick prep time – you’ll have it on the stove in just 15 minutes.
- Packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Very budget-friendly, especially when using leftover ham or a ham hock.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
- This split pea soup with ham is wonderfully comforting and warming.
- It’s a fantastic dish for meal prepping and freezes beautifully.
- You’ll find this split pea soup with ham is easy to customize with your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients for Split Pea Ham Soup
Gathering your split pea ham ingredients is the first step to making this amazing soup. You won’t believe how simple it is! The star is the meaty ham bone or ham hock; this is where all that deep, smoky flavor comes from, making it so much better than just using diced ham alone. Don’t worry if you don’t have a bone, though – about 2 cups diced cooked ham works too. We’ll also need 1 lb (450g) dried green split peas, which don’t require any soaking, saving you time. For the base, we’ve got 2 tbsp olive oil or butter, 1 large yellow onion, chopped, 2 carrots, peeled and diced, and 2 celery ribs, diced. A few cloves of 3 cloves garlic, minced add a lovely aroma. Then, 6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken broth and 2 cups water form the liquid. Finally, for seasoning, we’ll use 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, and of course, salt and black pepper, to taste.
How to Make Split Pea Ham Soup
Follow these simple steps for a delicious stovetop split pea ham soup that’s packed with flavor. This is how to make split pea ham soup the traditional way, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is!
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 large yellow onion, chopped, 2 carrots, peeled and diced, and 2 celery ribs, diced. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their sweet fragrance. Then, add the 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!
- Step 2: Stir in the 1 lb (450g) dried green split peas, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to coat the peas and herbs with the sautéed vegetables.
- Step 3: Pour in the 6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken broth and 2 cups water. Add your 1 meaty ham bone, ham hock, or 2 cups diced cooked ham. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer gently. The total split pea soup ham cooking time is about 60–75 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Step 4: Once the peas are tender and the soup has thickened, carefully remove the ham bone or hock. Let it cool slightly, then shred any meat off the bone and return the delicious shredded ham to the pot. Discard the bone and the bay leaf.
- Step 5: For a creamier consistency, you can use an immersion blender to puree about one-third to one-half of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can ladle a portion into a regular blender (be very careful with hot liquids!) and then return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step entirely.
- Step 6: Taste and season your soup with salt and black pepper, to taste. Adjust as needed. Ladle the hearty split pea ham soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or crunchy croutons if desired.
Easy Split Pea Soup Ham Slow Cooker Method
For an even simpler approach, try this easy split pea soup ham using your slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy days! Just add the sautéed vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, garlic) to your slow cooker along with the rinsed 1 lb (450g) dried green split peas, 1 meaty ham hock (or diced ham), 6 cups chicken broth, 2 cups water, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for 8–9 hours or on high for 5–6 hours, or until the peas are tender. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, return it to the soup, discard the bone and bay leaf, and season. This method makes a wonderfully flavorful split pea soup ham with minimal effort.
Pro Tips for the Best Split Pea Ham Soup
Want to elevate your split pea ham soup? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up to ensure you have the best split pea soup ham recipe every time:
- No soaking needed! Unlike other dried beans, split peas cook up beautifully without any pre-soaking, making this recipe super convenient.
- Flavor boost: Using a smoked ham hock or a really meaty ham bone is the secret to that deep, rich flavor in a traditional split pea soup.
- Stir it up: Remember to give your soup a stir now and then while it simmers. This prevents the peas from sticking to the bottom and burning, which can ruin the flavor.
- A little brightness goes a long way: If your soup tastes a bit flat, a small splash of apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice at the very end can really make the flavors pop!
- Freezer-friendly perfection: This soup freezes wonderfully, so feel free to make a big batch and save some for later.
What’s the secret to perfect split pea ham soup?
The real magic comes from using a quality ham bone or smoked ham hock. It infuses the soup with an incredible depth of savory, smoky flavor that you just can’t get from diced ham alone. It truly makes this smoked ham and split pea soup shine.
Can I make split pea ham soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is fantastic for meal prep. You can easily make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. It also freezes well!
How do I avoid common mistakes with split pea ham soup?
The most common pitfall is letting the soup stick and burn on the bottom of the pot – stir it regularly! Also, don’t overcook it to the point where the peas turn to mush; aim for tender but not completely disintegrated. Lastly, always taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as ham can be salty.
Best Ways to Serve Split Pea Ham Soup
This hearty soup is delicious on its own, but a few simple additions can make it even more special. For a pop of freshness and color, I love garnishing my bowl of split pea ham soup with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or some crunchy croutons. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping – a good sourdough or a hearty whole wheat loaf is perfect. For a heartier meal experience, think of it as a base for a delightful split pea and ham chowder by adding a splash of cream or milk at the end, making it extra rich and comforting.
Split Pea Ham Soup Variations You Can Try
While this recipe for split pea ham soup is amazing as is, there are so many ways to switch it up! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth, though you’ll lose that signature smoky flavor. For a richer, more decadent experience, try making a creamy split pea ham soup by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking. Another idea is to add different vegetables like parsnips or a leek for a more complex flavor profile. You could even add a dash of smoked paprika for an extra smoky kick without the ham bone!
Nutrition Facts for Split Pea Ham Soup
This hearty soup is packed with goodness! Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving for our delicious split pea ham soup. Keep in mind that the exact split pea soup ham calories can vary slightly depending on the specific ham bone or hock you use and the exact size of your servings.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 15g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Split Pea Ham Soup
This hearty soup is fantastic for making ahead and enjoying later. Once your delicious split pea ham soup has finished cooking, allow it to cool down to room temperature before storing. For refrigeration, use airtight containers; your split pea soup with leftover ham will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is your best bet. Ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion, and it will keep perfectly for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your split pea soup with leftover ham, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave in short bursts until heated through. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much during storage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Ham Soup
What is split pea ham soup?
Split pea ham soup is a classic, hearty soup made primarily from dried split peas and pieces of ham or a ham bone. It’s known for its thick, comforting texture and savory, smoky flavor. The split peas break down during cooking, creating a naturally creamy and protein-rich broth, making it a very satisfying meal, often considered a staple in American comfort food.
What is the best way to get flavor from a split pea soup ham bone?
Using a good quality split pea soup ham bone, or even better, a smoked ham hock, is key to unlocking deep flavor. The marrow and leftover meat on the bone release a rich, savory essence into the broth as it simmers. Make sure to let it cook for the full duration specified to extract all that deliciousness. The resulting split pea soup ham broth will be incredibly flavorful.
Can I use split pea soup ham broth instead of chicken broth?
While chicken broth is commonly used as a liquid base, you can certainly use a pre-made split pea soup ham broth if you have it, or even a good quality vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile. However, the ham bone or hock itself provides so much flavor that the broth choice becomes less critical. Many people find that just water and the ham bone create a sufficiently flavorful base.
How do I make split pea ham soup thicker if it’s too thin?
If your soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, don’t worry! A simple trick is to mash some of the cooked peas against the side of the pot with your spoon. You can also remove about a cup of the soup, blend it until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender (carefully!), and then stir it back into the pot. This adds extra body and creaminess without any extra ingredients.
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Split Pea Ham Soup: 5 Savory Secrets
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Split Pea Ham Soup is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. Made with split peas, a savory ham bone, and aromatic vegetables, it simmers into a thick, protein-packed soup that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or chilly evenings. Easy to adapt for the crockpot and freezer-friendly, this timeless recipe is a family favorite year-round.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) dried green split peas, rinsed
- 1 meaty ham bone, ham hock, or 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or croutons for serving
Instructions
- Sauté veggies: Heat oil in a pot. Cook onion, carrot, and celery 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Add peas & seasonings: Stir in split peas, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Simmer: Add broth, water, and ham bone. Bring to boil, reduce to simmer, cover partially, and cook 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Shred ham: Remove ham bone, shred meat, and return to pot. Discard bone and bay leaf.
- Blend (optional): Puree part of soup for a creamier texture or leave chunky.
- Season & serve: Adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley or croutons.
- Crockpot version: Add all ingredients to slow cooker. Cook on low 8–9 hrs or high 5–6 hrs. Remove bone, shred meat, and serve.
Notes
- No need to soak split peas—they cook quickly on their own.
- Use smoked ham hocks or meaty ham bones for deeper flavor.
- Stir soup occasionally to avoid sticking.
- For brightness, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end.
- Freezes beautifully—store in individual portions for quick meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop, Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
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