This hearty split pea soup with ham bone is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. The peas get nice and creamy while the ham adds a tasty, smoky kick!
Making this soup feels like a hug in a bowl. I love to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping—it’s the perfect combo! You’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Split Peas: These are the star of the soup! If you can’t find green split peas, yellow split peas can be a good alternative. Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so adjust your simmering time accordingly.
Smoked Ham Bone: A smoked ham bone adds rich flavor. If you don’t have one, you can use diced ham or even a meaty pork shank. It’s a great way to use leftovers too!
Onion, Carrots, and Celery: These three veggies form a classic mirepoix for flavor. If you’re out of any of these, leeks or shallots can work well in place of onion, and parsnips can replace carrots for a twist.
Thyme: Dried thyme works well, but fresh thyme takes the flavor to another level. If you want to experiment, try other herbs like rosemary or dill for a different taste profile!
How Do You Ensure the Split Peas Are Cooked to Perfection?
Cooking split peas properly is key to achieving that creamy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a good rinse. This removes any debris and helps the peas cook evenly.
- Simmer the peas low and slow. After bringing them to a boil, reduce the heat to get a gentle simmer. This helps them break down nicely without turning mushy too quickly.
- Keep an eye on the time. Around 1.5 to 2 hours is usually perfect, but you can taste test to check for doneness.
Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking! This also helps the soup thicken up as the peas release their starch. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 large smoked ham bone (with some meat on it)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups (1.4 liters) water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing vegetables
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. Total time is roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes, but most of that is hands-off simmering. So grab a book and let the magic happen on the stove!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot, you can start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat for a bit of extra flavor (this step is optional). Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Yum!
2. Add the Split Peas:
Next, toss the rinsed split peas into the pot, followed by the smoked ham bone. This will help infuse the soup with smoky goodness!
3. Pour the Liquid:
Now, pour in the 6 cups of water or chicken broth, making sure the ham bone is fully submerged. This ensures all that flavor can soak into the soup.
4. Bring to a Boil:
Add the bay leaf and thyme into the pot. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Simmer Away:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and enjoy the delicious aroma. The peas should be soft and starting to break down by the end of cooking.
6. Shred the Ham:
After the soup is done simmering, carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then pick off any bits of meat from the bone. Discard the bone and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
7. Return the Ham:
Now, add the shredded ham back into the soup for that hearty texture we love!
8. Add Fresh or Frozen Peas:
Stir in the fresh or frozen peas and cook for another 5-10 minutes, just until they’re heated through.
9. Season to Taste:
Give the soup a taste and then season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Feel free to adjust the seasoning as needed!
10. Remove the Bay Leaf:
Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. It’s not meant to be eaten!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch. Pair it with crusty bread for a delightful meal. Enjoy every spoonful of comfort from your homemade soup!
Can I Use Dried Split Peas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Dried split peas give the best texture and flavor to your soup. Just make sure to rinse them well and sort out any debris before cooking!
What Can I Substitute for the Ham Bone?
If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use diced ham, a meaty pork shank, or even turkey leg for a different flavor. These will also contribute a delicious savory taste to the soup!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables or beans to enhance the flavor and protein content.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
