Description
Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms both the body and soul. This thick, creamy soup is brimming with nutritious vegetables, hearty split peas, and tender chunks of ham, creating a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner or looking to utilize leftover ham from your holiday feast, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. Ideal for chilly nights or gatherings with loved ones, Split Pea Soup is easy to prepare and customizable based on your preferences. Enjoy it served with crusty bread or topped with fresh herbs for an irresistible flavor experience.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups finely diced onion
- 1 cup finely diced carrot
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1–1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1–1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed)
- 2 small bay leaves
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- Meaty ham bone (or hocks)
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper until softened (5–8 minutes).
- Add garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in rinsed split peas. Add the ham bone and chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone; shred meat and return it to the soup. Blend part of the soup for creaminess if desired.
- Adjust seasoning as necessary before serving warm with buttered bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 30mg