This creamy split pea soup is the epitome of comfort food. Packed with tender split peas, smoky ham, and an array of aromatic spices, this hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day or any time you crave a warm and satisfying meal. It’s a classic recipe elevated with a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This split pea soup recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Blending a portion of the soup creates a luscious, creamy consistency without the need for heavy cream or dairy. This makes it a healthier yet equally indulgent option.
- Deep, Savory Flavor: The combination of ham, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of spices creates a complex and deeply satisfying flavor profile. Each spoonful is a burst of savory goodness.
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and fiber, this soup is incredibly filling and will keep you satisfied for hours. It’s a complete meal in a bowl.
- Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavor, this soup is surprisingly easy to make. It requires minimal hands-on time and simmers gently on the stove, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop overnight. It’s perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium onions, finely diced
- 2-3 large carrots, finely diced
- 3-4 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1½ cups dried green split peas, rinsed
- 2 small bay leaves (or 1 large)
- 1 meaty ham bone or ham hocks (see note below)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Crusty buttered bread, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Vegetables: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-8 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onions turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This will help to bloom the spices and release their full flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup: Add the rinsed split peas, ham bone or ham hocks, bay leaves, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, uncovered, for 60-90 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Remove Ham Bone and Shred Meat: Once the peas are tender and the soup has reached your desired consistency, remove the ham bone or ham hocks from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the ham off the bone, discarding any skin, fat, or bones. Return the shredded ham to the soup. Discard the bay leaves.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess (Optional): For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to blend about 2 cups of the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be careful when blending hot liquids. Stir the pureed soup back into the pot. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
COOKING Rating: Easy to Moderate
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves, and a side of crusty buttered bread for dipping. This soup also pairs well with a simple green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Tips:
- Ham Bone vs. Ham Hocks: A meaty ham bone will add the most flavor to the soup. If you don’t have a ham bone, ham hocks are a great alternative. You can also use leftover cooked ham, but be sure to add it later in the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too salty.
- Rinsing Split Peas: Rinsing the split peas before cooking helps to remove any debris and excess starch, resulting in a cleaner-tasting soup.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a longer period of time to allow it to thicken.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, omit them altogether.
- Storage: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 350 Protein: 25g Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
This Creamy Split Pea Soup with Savory Ham and Aromatic Spices is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy texture, deep savory flavor, and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and a delicious way to warm up on a chilly day. Enjoy!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ham bone or ham hocks and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to give the soup a smoky flavor similar to ham. Consider adding other vegetables like potatoes or spinach to enhance the heartiness and nutritional profile.
Q2: How do I prevent the split peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot?
A: To prevent the split peas from sticking, stir the soup occasionally during the simmering process, especially during the first hour of cooking. Also, ensure that the heat is set to low and that the soup is not boiling too vigorously. A heavy-bottomed pot can also help distribute heat more evenly and prevent sticking.
Q3: Can I use a different type of bean in this recipe?
A: While split peas are the traditional choice for this soup, you can experiment with other types of beans, such as lentils or dried chickpeas. However, keep in mind that different beans may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly. Lentils, for instance, will cook much faster than split peas.
Q4: How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
A: Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. When reheating, add a little broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Q5: What are some other toppings or additions I can use to customize this soup?
A: There are many ways to customize this soup to your liking. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Crispy croutons, chopped fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil are also great toppings. You can also add other vegetables, such as diced potatoes, turnips, or kale, to the soup during the simmering process. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
