Description
Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings with family and friends. This creamy, hearty dish combines tender green split peas with savory ham and vibrant vegetables, creating a delightful blend of flavors that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or just want a nutritious meal option, this split pea soup is easy to prepare and highly satisfying. Best of all, it tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep. Enjoy a bowl with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups finely diced onion
- 1 cup finely diced carrot
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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
- 1 meaty ham bone (or ham hocks)
- 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
- Add rinsed split peas, ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes until peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone; shred meat off the bone and return it to the pot.
- For creaminess, blend part of the soup if desired before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 20mg