Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace as the rich, smoky scent dances with hints of herbs and spices. The vibrant green of the peas mingles with tender chunks of ham, creating a symphony of flavors that promises to comfort your soul on the chilliest of days.
As you ladle this hearty soup into a bowl, memories flood back of family gatherings where laughter and stories filled the air, each spoonful evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a festive holiday gathering, this split pea soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together, ensuring every bite is bursting with love and satisfaction.
Why Is Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone So Irresistibly Good?
Hearty and satisfying, this split pea soup is the perfect remedy for chilly days. Nutritious ingredients like split peas, carrots, and celery ensure every spoonful is packed with vitamins and flavor. The ham bone infuses rich, savory notes, elevating this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Easy to make, with just 15 minutes of prep time, it's ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham! Whether you're serving a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this comforting bowl of soup will warm your heart and soul.
Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb split peas (rinsed and sorted) – These legumes provide a hearty texture and are the star of your Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone.
- 1 medium onion (chopped) – A chopped onion adds depth and sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile of your soup.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Fresh minced garlic brings a fragrant aroma and a hint of spice to the dish.
- 2 medium carrots (diced) – Diced carrots add natural sweetness and vibrant color to your comforting soup.
- 2 stalks celery (diced) – Celery contributes crunch and earthy undertones that balance the richness of the ham bone.
- 1 ham bone (with some meat attached) – This essential ingredient infuses the soup with smoky, savory flavors that make it extra hearty.
- 8 cups water – Water acts as the base for your soup, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully together.
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried) – Dried thyme adds an aromatic touch, perfectly complementing the other ingredients in this cozy recipe.
- 1 bay leaf – A bay leaf enhances the overall taste, giving your soup a subtle herbal note during cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste) – Salt is essential for bringing out all the flavors; adjust according to your preference.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste) – A pinch of black pepper adds warmth and mild heat, balancing the sweetness of the vegetables.
Directions: Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine 1 lb of rinsed and sorted split peas, 1 chopped medium onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 2 diced medium carrots, 2 diced stalks of celery, and the ham bone with some meat attached.
2. Boil Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Watch as it bubbles and begins to come together beautifully!
3. Simmer Gently: Reduce the heat to low, cover your pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the peas are tender and creamy.
4. Remove Ham Bone: Carefully remove the ham bone from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Shred any remaining meat from the bone; this will add an extra layer of flavor!
5. Return Ham to Soup: Return the shredded ham back into the pot and stir well to combine all those delicious flavors.
6. Season to Taste: Adjust your seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, tasting along the way for that perfect balance.
7. Serve Warm: Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
- Rinse the Peas: Always rinse and sort your split peas to remove any debris and ensure even cooking, preventing a gritty texture.
- Chop Evenly: Dice your carrots and celery into uniform pieces; this promotes even cooking and enhances the soup's overall texture.
- Don’t Rush It: Simmering the soup on low heat is crucial. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a rich taste in your split pea soup with ham bone.
- Taste as You Go: After shredding the ham, taste your soup before adding more salt or pepper. The ham will contribute saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
How to Store and Freeze Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
- Room Temperature: Allow your split pea soup with ham bone to cool completely before leaving it out for no more than 2 hours to avoid bacterial growth.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone Your Way
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this cozy dish to suit your taste!
- Vegetarian: Omit the ham bone and add smoked paprika for a savory depth. You can enhance the flavor with a splash of liquid smoke for that irresistible essence of warmth.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting heat. The spicy twist brings a delightful contrast to the soup’s creaminess, making each spoonful a new adventure.
- Herb Infusion: Substitute thyme with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley. Fresh herbs not only brighten the flavor but also add a vibrant green touch, elevating your soup's presentation.
- Creamy Texture: Blend half of the soup after cooking for a velvety consistency. This creates a hearty, thick base while still keeping some whole peas for texture, resulting in a wonderfully comforting experience.
- Root Veggie Boost: Add diced potatoes or parsnips alongside the carrots and celery. These additions introduce a subtle sweetness and heartiness, enriching the overall profile of your comforting meal.
- Savory Umami: Incorporate a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce. This simple addition deepens the savory notes, perfectly complementing the natural flavors of the ham and peas.
- Citrus Brightness: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice just before serving. This zesty enhancement balances the richness of the ham and adds a refreshing twist to each bowlful.
Make Ahead Options
This Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its hearty goodness throughout the week. You can chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots and celery up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The split peas can be rinsed and sorted ahead of time as well, making it easy to throw everything together when you’re ready. To prepare the soup, simply combine all ingredients—split peas, prepped veggies, ham bone, water, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper—in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender. After removing and shredding the ham bone, return the meat to the pot and adjust seasoning. If stored correctly in the fridge, your Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone will stay fresh for up to 3 days; just reheat gently on the stove before serving warm. Enjoy this comforting dish whenever you need a cozy meal!
Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone Recipe FAQs
What type of split peas should I use for this soup?
For this recipe, you can use either green or yellow split peas. Both varieties will yield a deliciously hearty soup, but green split peas tend to maintain their shape a bit better during cooking, while yellow split peas create a creamier texture. Just make sure to rinse and sort them before using!
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian or vegan version of the Split Pea Soup, simply omit the ham bone and replace it with vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. You can also incorporate smoked paprika to mimic the smokiness from the ham. The cooking instructions remain the same.
How do I store leftover split pea soup?
If you have leftovers, cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes! Freezing is a great option to preserve your Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
What if my split peas aren't tender after 2 hours of cooking?
If your peas aren't tender after simmering for about 1.5 to 2 hours, they may need more time depending on their age and quality. Just continue simmering and check every 10 minutes until they reach that soft consistency. Ensure you're using enough liquid as well; if it looks too thick, add a splash of water.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This comforting Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone recipe makes approximately 4 generous servings, with each serving clocking in at around 250 calories. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week!
Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, combine the split peas, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, ham bone, water, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone, let it cool slightly, and shred any remaining meat from the bone.
- Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
