Let’s Whip Up Some Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone!
Hey there! If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal, you’ve come to the right place. One of my all-time favorite recipes is a warm bowl of split pea soup with a ham bone. It’s not just hearty and flavorful, but also super easy to make! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will likely become a go-to dish in your kitchen. It’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave a little comfort, and it’s a lovely way to utilize that leftover ham bone from a special dinner.
Nutritional Benefits
Before we dive into cooking, let’s chat about why this split pea soup is not just delicious but also good for you! Split peas are an amazing source of protein and fiber—perfect for keeping you full and satisfied. They also pack a punch of vitamins like folate, which supports heart health and helps with cell function. Plus, the ham bone adds a savory flavor while contributing some protein too. It’s a nurturing meal in every sense!
Fun Variations You Can Try
If you’re feeling adventurous or need to cater to different dietary preferences, there are plenty of delightful alternatives! Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham bone altogether and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can even add some smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor!
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra veggies like diced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or spinach to up the nutritional value even more.
- Spice It Up: If you’re in the mood for a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños while sautéing the veggies.
Your Hearty Split Pea Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup split green peas
- 1 ham bone (with some meat left on)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Slices of crusty bread (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
- Start by rinsing the split green peas under cold water and setting them aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until those lovely veggies are softened.
- Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant—oh, that smell is so good!
- It’s time to add the rinsed split peas, ham bone, chicken broth (or water), bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a brisk boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and everything has thickened into a lovely soup.
- About 30 minutes into simmering, check the soup. When it’s cool enough to handle, remove the ham bone and chop any meat off it into small pieces before returning the meat to the soup.
- Before serving, discard the bay leaf. If you prefer a smoother texture, grab an immersion blender and blend it to your satisfaction, but I love leaving it a bit chunky!
- Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. Your soup is now ready to serve!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—just note the soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
- This soup freezes beautifully! Just allow it to cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and you can enjoy it for future meals.
- Pair your hearty soup with crusty bread for dipping. It’s absolutely the best way to savor every last drop!
Equipment You’ll Need
Let’s make sure you have everything you need:
- A large pot or Dutch oven to cook your soup in.
- A cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping your veggies.
- A wooden spoon to stir—this helps blend the flavors beautifully.
- An immersion blender for blending the soup if you want a smoother texture (or you can use a regular blender in batches, just be cautious with the heat).
- Measuring cups and spoons to get those portions just right.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dried peas instead of split peas? Yes, but make sure to soak them overnight to soften before cooking.
- Is there a way to make the soup creamier? Absolutely! You can stir in a bit of cream or coconut milk just before serving.
- How do I know when the soup is done? When the peas are tender and have mostly fallen apart, your soup is ready!
- Can I use a pressure cooker for this recipe? Yes, if you’re short on time! Cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes, and you’ll have a delicious soup in no time!
- What can I serve with this soup? Besides crusty bread, a simple green salad or some savory cheese would pair perfectly!
Join the Conversation!
So, what do you think? Are you excited to make this soup? I’d love to hear how your version turned out! Feel free to tag me on Pinterest with your creations. Happy cooking, and enjoy every warm bowl of this delicious split pea soup!
