Nothing quite beats a bowl of classic split pea soup! This comforting dish features creamy split peas, tender vegetables, and savory ham, making it the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Rich in flavor and history, this hearty soup is budget-friendly, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread, split pea soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
1 smoked ham hock (or 1 cup diced ham or bacon)
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil

Directions

Prepare the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened but not browned.
Add Herbs and Peas:
Stir in the bay leaf and thyme, followed by the rinsed split peas. Mix well to coat the peas with the flavors.
Add Ham and Broth:
Nestle the smoked ham hock (or diced ham/bacon) into the pot and pour in the broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally.
Adjust the Consistency:
Check the peas for tenderness. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water. For a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
Prepare the Ham:
Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and discard the bones and skin. Stir the shredded ham back into the soup.
Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and serve the soup, garnished with parsley, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Nutrients

Calories: 357 per serving
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes

Enjoy this comforting, flavorful soup! It’s perfect for a warm and hearty meal.

A Brief History of Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup boasts a long and fascinating history, dating back to ancient civilizations. Legumes like split peas have been cultivated for thousands of years due to their affordability, nutritional value, and ease of storage. In medieval Europe, split pea soup was a staple dish for peasants, who appreciated its simplicity and ability to stretch ingredients over several meals.

In the United States, split pea soup gained popularity in the early 20th century as a thrifty, wholesome meal. It became a cultural icon, particularly in the northern states, where cold winters demanded warm, filling dishes. Today, split pea soup remains a beloved recipe, celebrated for its rustic charm and timeless appeal.

The Ingredients That Make It Special

What sets split pea soup apart is its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a well-balanced dish:

Split Peas: The star of the soup, split peas break down as they cook, creating a creamy texture without the need for added cream or thickeners.
Aromatic Vegetables: Onions, garlic, carrots, and celery provide the aromatic base, infusing the soup with depth and flavor.
Smoked Ham or Bacon: The addition of smoked meat gives the soup its signature savory flavor, while the ham hock adds richness and depth.
Herbs and Spices: Bay leaf and thyme bring a fragrant, earthy note to the dish, enhancing its overall complexity.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth serves as the foundation, tying all the flavors together and ensuring a satisfying, hearty soup.

Nutritional Benefits of Split Pea Soup

Beyond its comforting taste, split pea soup is a nutritional powerhouse. Split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. A single bowl is packed with:

Protein: Split peas and ham provide ample protein, making the soup a satisfying and energizing meal.
Fiber: The high fiber content promotes digestive health and helps keep you full for longer.
Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots and celery contribute a dose of vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants, while the split peas offer iron, magnesium, and folate.

For those looking for a hearty yet healthy meal, split pea soup ticks all the boxes.

The Versatility of Split Pea Soup

One of the greatest strengths of split pea soup is its adaptability. With a few tweaks, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the ham with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a plant-based alternative that still captures the savory essence.
Texture Variations: For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup partially or fully. Prefer a chunkier soup? Leave the peas slightly firm for added texture.
Additional Ingredients: Experiment with flavors by adding diced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even a handful of spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Spices: Add a pinch of cumin, coriander, or red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor profile.

Tips for the Perfect Bowl of Split Pea Soup

Creating a flawless bowl of split pea soup is easier than you might think. Keep these tips in mind for the best results:

Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables, high-quality broth, and a smoked ham hock or bacon will elevate the flavor of your soup.
Rinse and Sort Split Peas: Always rinse the peas thoroughly and remove any debris before cooking.
Cook Low and Slow: Simmering the soup on low heat allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring the peas soften to perfection.
Adjust Consistency: Split pea soup tends to thicken as it cools. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Don’t Skip the Garnish: Fresh parsley, crunchy croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil not only enhance the presentation but also add a burst of flavor.

Why Split Pea Soup is Perfect for Chilly Days

Few dishes can rival the comfort of a steaming bowl of split pea soup on a cold day. Its hearty texture and warming flavors make it the ultimate winter meal. The soup’s ability to be made ahead of time and stored for days also adds to its appeal, as it becomes even more flavorful after resting in the refrigerator.

Split pea soup is an ideal dish for meal prep or feeding a crowd. A large pot can serve multiple people, and leftovers freeze exceptionally well, ensuring you always have a satisfying meal on hand.

Pairing Split Pea Soup with Sides

While split pea soup is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Salads: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.
Cheese Platter: Serve the soup with a selection of cheeses for a sophisticated touch.
Baked Potatoes: A baked potato on the side adds another layer of heartiness to your meal.

Cultural Variations of Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup is a global dish, with each culture adding its unique twist:

Dutch Erwtensoep: Known as “snert” in the Netherlands, this version is traditionally thicker and often served with smoked sausage and rye bread.
Canadian Pea Soup: A staple in French-Canadian cuisine, this variation includes herbs like savory and sometimes yellow split peas instead of green.
Caribbean Split Pea Soup: Spiced with hot peppers and flavored with coconut milk, this version offers a tropical twist.

Exploring these variations can inspire you to experiment with new flavors and techniques in your kitchen.

Conclusion

Classic split pea soup is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Its rich history, wholesome ingredients, and versatility make it a timeless favorite. Whether you enjoy it chunky or smooth, vegetarian or with smoky ham, split pea soup is a recipe that adapts to your tastes and occasions.

From its humble beginnings as a peasant dish to its status as a cherished comfort food, split pea soup continues to bring people together around the table. As you savor each spoonful, you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also partaking in a culinary tradition that has spanned centuries. Serve it with your favorite sides, share it with loved ones, and let this classic dish warm your soul on the coldest of days.