What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade split pea soup is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a hearty meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. *It’s packed with flavor from tender vegetables, smoky ham, and creamy split peas.* *Plus, it’s budget-friendly and makes plenty for leftovers.* *Customize it with your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.*
Recipe
This homemade split pea soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 ham bone or 8 ounces diced ham
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add split peas, ham bone or diced ham, bay leaves, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and soup has thickened.
- Remove the ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bone and bay leaves.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth.
- Soup thickens as it cools; add more broth if needed when reheating.
Equipment:
Large pot or Dutch oven
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
6-8 servings
Nutrition
This homemade split pea soup is a nutritious and hearty dish, packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 16g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my split pea soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread on the side because it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit. A fresh, tangy salad with greens and a light vinaigrette also balances the richness of the soup so well. These pairings make the meal feel complete and satisfying every time.
Crusty Bread Pairings
When I’m diving into a comforting bowl of homemade split pea soup, I can’t imagine not having a slice of crusty bread by my side—it’s the perfect partner for soaking up every last bit of flavor. A warm baguette with its crisp exterior and soft, chewy center is my go-to, but sourdough or a rustic whole-grain loaf works just as well. I love tearing off a piece, dipping it straight into the soup, and letting it soak up that rich, smoky broth. It’s simple, satisfying, and turns an already great meal into something truly special.
Fresh Salad Options
While split pea soup is hearty on its own, pairing it with a fresh salad can brighten up the meal and add a crisp contrast to its creamy texture. I love tossing together a simple mixed greens salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette—it’s invigorating and balances the soup’s richness. For something heartier, try a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons or a kale salad massaged with lemon and olive oil. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll add sliced apples or walnuts for extra crunch. A fresh salad elevates the whole meal, making it feel complete and satisfying.
