There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of split pea soup. Its thick, velvety texture and earthy flavor make it the perfect meal for chilly days or when you’re looking for a nourishing, filling dish. Packed with split peas, vegetables, and seasoned with smoky ham or bacon, this soup is not only delicious but also rich in protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a healthy, easy-to-make, and budget-friendly recipe, this classic split pea soup is a must-try!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or unsalted butter)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for added warmth)
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 ham bone (or 2 cups cooked, diced ham)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups water (optional, to thin the soup if needed)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent. This step helps build the flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Then, stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, turmeric (if using), and bay leaf. These herbs and spices will infuse the soup with comforting, aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Add Split Peas and Broth Add the rinsed split peas to the pot, followed by the vegetable (or chicken) broth. Stir to combine, making sure the peas are fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, or until the split peas have softened and broken down. Stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add Ham (or Ham Bone) If you’re using a ham bone, add it to the soup at this stage. The bone will release a rich, smoky flavor as the soup simmers. If you’re using diced ham, add it halfway through the cooking process so it has time to infuse the soup with flavor without becoming too soft.

Step 5: Simmer and Stir Let the soup simmer for another 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the peas break down, the soup will thicken, becoming rich and creamy. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add up to 2 cups of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Remove Ham Bone and Adjust Seasonings Once the split peas are fully cooked, remove the ham bone from the pot and discard it. If you used a bone, make sure to shred any remaining ham and add it back into the soup. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a satisfying meal.

Tips for the Perfect Split Pea Soup:

1. Use a Ham Bone for Extra Flavor: If you have a leftover ham bone from a holiday meal, this is the perfect way to use it up. It adds incredible depth of flavor to the soup. If you don’t have a ham bone, diced ham works just as well.
2. Thicken or Thin to Your Liking: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a creamier consistency. You can also add more water or broth to thin it out if it becomes too thick.
3. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition: You can add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or spinach to the soup for additional flavor and nutrients.
4. Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, omit the ham or ham bone and use vegetable broth. You can add a little liquid smoke or smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
5. Make It Ahead: Split pea soup actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. It also freezes well, so you can make a large batch and store leftovers for a quick meal later on.

Why Split Pea Soup is So Loved:

Split pea soup is a dish that has stood the test of time due to its simplicity, heartiness, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this soup is an affordable and satisfying meal that never disappoints. The combination of split peas, vegetables, and smoky ham (or bacon) creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and rich in nutrition.

It’s the perfect soup for meal prepping, and it can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a filling dinner, or a starter to a bigger meal. The earthy split peas provide protein and fiber, making it a hearty, nourishing choice that will keep you full for hours.

So, if you’re looking for a flavorful, hearty, and easy-to-make soup, this classic split pea soup recipe is the answer. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s been a staple in kitchens for generations!