Cozy Split Pea Soup with Ham: A Hearty Comfort Food Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of split pea soup with ham wafting through the kitchen. It dances in the air, wrapping you in a warm, cozy embrace. The vibrant green peas meld with tender bits of ham, creating a hearty dish that promises comfort with every spoonful.

Picture this: It’s a chilly evening, and you’re bundled up on the couch, ready to indulge in a bowl of this delightful soup. The flavors are rich and inviting, and as you take that first sip, you can’t help but smile. This soup isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those moments when you need a little extra warmth.

In my family, this soup has always been a staple on cold winter nights. I still remember my grandma stirring her big pot on the stove while telling stories about her childhood—those moments filled with laughter and warmth made this soup unforgettable.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Split Peas: Look for bright green or yellow peas; they should be firm without any blemishes.

• Smoked Ham Hock: This adds depth and smokiness; feel free to use leftover ham for extra flavor.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness; choose firm ones for the best texture.

• Onion: A large onion adds sweetness and aroma; finely chop to release its flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances taste; use three cloves for that aromatic kick.

• Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels; homemade is even better!

• Bay Leaves: These add subtle herbal notes; don’t forget to remove them before serving.

• Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper gives a nice bite; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Olive Oil: Use it for sautéing vegetables; it adds richness without overpowering other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make split pea soup with ham

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add chopped onions, carrots, and garlic until they soften and release their sweet aroma.

Add Split Peas and Ham Hock: Stir in rinsed split peas along with the smoked ham hock. This step ensures all those rich flavors mingle beautifully together.

Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Add vegetable broth, bay leaves, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally—your kitchen will smell divine!

Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer covered for about 30-40 minutes until peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom.

Final Touches Before Serving: Remove the ham hock once cooked. Shred any meat into bite-sized pieces before returning it back into the pot for added texture.

Serve Hot with Crusty Bread!: Ladle generous portions into bowls and serve alongside crusty bread or crackers—perfect for dipping! Enjoy heartily!

With each spoonful of split pea soup with ham, you’ll find yourself transported back to those cozy memories shared around the dining table. It’s not just sustenance; it’s nostalgia wrapped in flavor—a dish that brings loved ones together on chilly evenings while warming your heart from within.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot, then add split peas, broth, and ham. Simmer until tender for perfect flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in smoked sausage for ham or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with spices like thyme or paprika to elevate the taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover split pea soup with ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop until heated through.

Sharing my first experience making this dish brings back memories of friends gathered around my table, eagerly waiting for that first spoonful of warm goodness.

FAQ

Can I use dried split peas instead of fresh?

Yes, dried split peas are perfect for this recipe; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What type of ham should I use?

Smoked ham hocks or leftover holiday ham work wonderfully in this split pea soup with ham.

Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! Freeze it in portions for quick meals later on; it thaws beautifully.

Print

Split Pea Soup with Ham

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Split pea soup with ham is a comforting classic that brings warmth to chilly evenings. With its vibrant green color and rich flavors, this hearty dish combines tender split peas with smoky ham, creating a delightful hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with ingredients from your pantry. Serve it hot alongside crusty bread for a satisfying meal that evokes nostalgia and togetherness.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 1 cup diced leftover ham)
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ tsp black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until softened.
2. Add rinsed split peas and ham hock; stir well.
3. Pour in vegetable broth, add bay leaves and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until peas are tender.
5. Remove ham hock; shred meat into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 20mg