Ham split pea soup – recipesshubb

Ham Split Pea Soup

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of ham split pea soup. Hearty, flavorful, and brimming with protein and fiber, this classic soup has been a staple in kitchens for generations. Perfect for chilly evenings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, it’s simple to make yet deeply satisfying.

Using leftover ham or a smoked ham hock transforms humble split peas into a rich, smoky, and comforting soup that’s packed with flavor. Add a few vegetables and spices, and you’ve got a nourishing meal that warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Uses simple pantry staples
Hearty and filling, yet light on the budget
Perfect for using leftover ham
Can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop
Freezes beautifully for later

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

1 lb (450 g) dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3–4 cups diced cooked ham (or 1 smoked ham hock)
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for extra depth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Dice vegetables and ham. If using a ham hock, trim excess fat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Split Peas and Ham

Stir in the split peas and diced ham (or ham hock). This ensures the peas are coated with the aromatics and begin absorbing flavors.

4. Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add thyme, bay leaf, and optional spices. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

5. Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and the soup has thickened.

Tip: If using a ham hock, remove it after cooking, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.

6. Adjust Seasoning

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some peas and vegetables whole for texture.

7. Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or warm rolls for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Ham Split Pea Soup

Soak peas for 30 minutes to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility
Use smoked ham hock for richer flavor if no leftover ham is available
Don’t rush simmering—low and slow is key for creamy, tender peas
Freeze in portions for easy lunches or dinners later
Add vegetables like potatoes or parsnips for variety

Variations

Spicy Ham Split Pea: Add cayenne or chili flakes for heat
Herbed Version: Use rosemary or sage in addition to thyme
Vegetarian-Friendly: Omit ham and use vegetable broth; add smoked paprika for depth
Creamy Soup: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end

Storage

Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating

Why This Soup Works

Split peas break down during cooking to create a naturally creamy texture, while ham adds smoky depth and protein. The combination of soft vegetables, flavorful broth, and tender peas makes this soup both hearty and comforting, ideal for all ages and skill levels in the kitchen.

It’s the ultimate example of a humble ingredient—split peas—transformed into a luxurious, nourishing meal that’s simple to make and impossible not to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Ham split pea soup is the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and comfort. Using everyday ingredients, you can create a bowl of soup that feels like it’s been simmering for hours, delivering warmth, nourishment, and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Whether you’re using leftover ham, planning a week of meal prep, or just craving something cozy, this recipe is a timeless favorite that belongs in every kitchen.