Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone

Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is one of those hearty dishes that warms both the belly and the spirit. It’s a comforting favorite that often makes an appearance on chilly evenings, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The delightful flavors of the ham paired with the earthiness of split peas create a cozy, wholesome soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it uses up that leftover ham bone, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Why you’ll love this dish

This recipe is special for so many reasons. Not only does it bring a delightful taste that your family will love, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. One of the best things about this split pea soup is that it’s naturally budget-friendly, using just a few simple ingredients to create something truly heartwarming.

“This is the best split pea soup I’ve ever made! It’s now a staple in our home every winter.” – Happy Cooker

Now that’s a testimonial you can trust. The comforting nature of this dish makes it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. It’s the kind of recipe that warms the kitchen and invites everyone to the table.

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What you’ll need

Gather these items to prepare your soul-warming Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone:

• 1 pound split peas
• 1 ham bone
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. If you’re missing a ham bone, smoked sausage can work as a great substitute, adding a similar depth of flavor.

Step-by-step instructions

This recipe is straightforward, and you’ll have a warm pot of split pea soup ready before you know it!

1. Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, add the ham bone and broth, bringing it to a boil.
3. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
4. Stir in the split peas and bay leaf.
5. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
6. Remove the ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the pot.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot.

You’ll find that this dish not only nourishes the body but also the spirit, infusing your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Best ways to enjoy it

To serve your delicious soup, consider pairing it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley offers a lovely finishing touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic reduction could elevate your bowl to something spectacular!

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers are a blessing when it comes to split pea soup. You can store any extra soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, just place it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Should you wish to freeze some for later, it freezes well in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

Helpful cooking tips

Trying to make sure this soup turns out just right? One pro tip is to soak the split peas for a few hours before cooking. This can help them cook faster and promote even tenderness. Also, remember, the longer the soup simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! Just be sure to check and add more liquid if it gets too thick.

Recipe variations

Feel like experimenting? Consider adding diced potatoes for extra heartiness or a handful of fresh spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrition. You could also spice things up with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you fancy a little heat!

Common questions

What is the prep time for this soup?

Preparation time is minimal—about 10-15 minutes. Cooking it takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours on the stove.

Can I use dried split peas instead of fresh?

Yes! Dried split peas are typically what you’ll find in stores and work perfectly for this recipe.

Is split pea soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Embrace the warmth and love of your kitchen with this comforting Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone. It’s simple, fulfilling, and bound to become a beloved recipe in your home. Happy cooking!

Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone

A hearty and comforting split pea soup featuring the delightful flavors of ham, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound split peas
• 1 piece ham bone Can substitute with smoked sausage.
• 2 pieces carrots, diced
• 2 pieces celery stalks, diced
• 1 piece onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 leaf bay leaf

Method

 

Preparation

1. Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, add the ham bone and broth, bringing it to a boil.
3. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
4. Stir in the split peas and bay leaf.
5. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
6. Remove the ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the pot.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place on stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. It also freezes well for up to three months. Soaking the split peas for a few hours before cooking helps speed up cooking and ensures even tenderness.