When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms you up quite like a bowl of Hearty Split Pea Soup. This recipe is a go-to for those seeking comfort and nourishment in a single dish. The combination of tender split peas and savory ham creates an unforgettable flavor profile that feels like a cozy embrace.
Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of this nourishing soup, rich with the essence of simmered vegetables and hearty split peas. It’s perfect for a weekend dinner or a simple weeknight meal, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day.
Deliciously Thick Hearty Split Pea Soup
This Hearty Split Pea Soup is a thick and satisfying dish made with split peas, tender ham, and a medley of vegetables. The flavor is deep and savory, with a slight earthiness from the peas and a hint of smokiness from the ham, making every spoonful feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 1/2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the split peas and set aside. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Ham and Peas: Stir in the ham hock (or diced ham), split peas, broth, water, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup thickens. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
- Season and Serve: Remove the ham hock and let it cool. Shred the meat from the bone and return it to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
