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Mom's Cozy Split Pea Soup
Every time I make this split pea soup the kitchen fills with memories of mom's cooking. The combination of tender peas fork-tender ham and garden vegetables creates the most comforting bowl of soup perfect for chilly evenings. Best of all it's simple to make with just a few basic ingredients.
A Bowl of Pure Comfort
Nothing beats homemade split pea soup simmered low and slow with a meaty ham bone. The flavors remind me of Sunday dinners at home growing up. While canned versions are convenient they just can't compare to this made-from-scratch recipe packed with fresh vegetables and tender pieces of ham.
What You'll Need
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté vegetables; butter can substitute.
- Yellow Onion, Celery, Carrots, and Garlic: These vegetables build the soup's foundational flavors and add color.
- Chicken Broth and Water: Balances flavor without overpowering the delicate peas.
- Dried Split Peas: No soaking required; just pick over, rinse, and drain.
- Bay Leaves, Thyme, and Parsley: Fresh or dried herbs enhance the soup's savory depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust seasoning after cooking the ham to prevent over-salting.
- Ham Bone: A leftover ham bone adds richness. Ham shanks can substitute if needed.
Let's Make the Soup
- Saute Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and celery, sautéing for 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Liquid and Peas
- Pour in chicken broth and water. Stir in split peas, bay leaves, and thyme. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer with Ham Bone
- Place the ham bone in the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Ham
- Remove the ham bone from the soup. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook Carrots
- Add diced carrots to the soup and continue simmering for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas break down and the soup thickens.
- Combine and Serve
- Return shredded ham to the soup. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
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My Kitchen Tips
Sometimes I toss in diced potatoes with the carrots for an even heartier soup. If yours isn't thick enough just let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer. Keep in mind the soup gets thicker as it sits so you might need to add a splash of water when reheating.
Saving Leftovers
This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to mingle. It'll keep in the fridge for about 3 days. I often make a double batch and freeze portions in containers leaving some room at the top since it expands when frozen. They'll keep for up to 3 months perfect for busy weeknights.
Other Ways to Cook It
On busy days I'll throw everything in my slow cooker using just 2 cups of water and let it simmer all day about 7 to 8 hours on low. If you're short on time the Instant Pot works great too. Just brown the vegetables using the saute setting then pressure cook for 15 minutes with a natural release.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I freeze split pea soup?
This soup freezes really well for up to 3 months in airtight containers. Let it cool completely before freezing, and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to eat.
- → What can I use if I don't have a ham bone?
Ham shanks work great as a substitute for the ham bone. You can also use diced ham, though you'll miss some of the rich flavor that comes from cooking with the bone.
- → Why isn't my soup thickening?
Split pea soup naturally thickens as it cooks and the peas break down. If it's still too thin, try cooking uncovered for the last 30 minutes, and remember it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- → Which cooking method is best?
Each method works well but offers different benefits. Stovetop gives you the most control over thickness, slow cooker is great for hands-off cooking, and pressure cooker is fastest while still developing good flavor.
- → How long does split pea soup keep in the fridge?
The soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Conclusion
A classic split pea soup that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Made with simple ingredients and adaptable cooking methods, this soup is a versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion.