Comforting Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Days

Split pea soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Picture this: creamy green goodness, simmering gently on the stove, filling your kitchen with an aroma that makes your mouth water. The earthy scent of split peas mingles with savory ham, fresh herbs, and maybe even a hint of garlic, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the table. Whether it’s a chilly day or you simply need comfort food, this split pea soup delivers warmth and satisfaction like no other.

I first discovered my love for split pea soup during a family gathering where my aunt served her famous recipe. Watching everyone take their first spoonful and instantly smile was a heartwarming moment I’ll never forget. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a weekday lunch when you need something easy yet delicious to lift your spirits.

I vividly recall my friend’s reaction when I served this soup at a dinner party; they declared it “the essence of comfort.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Split Peas: Use dried green or yellow split peas; rinse them well to remove any dust or debris.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

• Celery: Celery brings crunch and depth; use fresh stalks for the best flavor.

• Onion: A medium onion enhances the base flavor; dice finely so it cooks evenly.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic warmth; mince them just before adding for maximum flavor.

• Ham Bone or Ham Hock: For smoky richness, include a ham bone or hock; it’ll enrich the broth beautifully.

• Vegetable Broth or Water: Use low-sodium vegetable broth for depth; water works too if you’re in a pinch.

• Thyme: Fresh thyme adds herbal notes; feel free to substitute with dried thyme if needed.

• Bay Leaves: Add one or two bay leaves for subtle depth; remember to remove them before serving!

• Salt and Pepper: Season generously but taste before serving to avoid oversalting.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Dice your onions, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once heated, toss in the diced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant.

Add Vegetables and Peas: Stir in chopped carrots and celery along with rinsed split peas into the pot. Mix well to combine all those wonderful flavors.

Pour in Broth: Add your ham bone or hock next. Pour in enough vegetable broth (or water) to cover everything by about an inch. Bring this lovely mixture to a gentle boil.

Season It Right: Toss in thyme and bay leaves now! Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes until the peas are soft.

Taste and Serve: As the soup nears completion, remove the ham bone or hock carefully. Shred any remaining meat back into your soup while seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste.

And there you have it! A bowl of homemade split pea soup that’s not just food but an experience bursting with flavors that warm your heart as much as they fill your belly. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for flavor, then add split peas, broth, and seasonings. This method builds layers of taste for an unforgettable soup.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies like carrots or celery for your favorites. Adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile tremendously.

Storing & Reheating

Store split pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Sharing my first attempt at making split pea soup is still a cherished memory; my friends raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar that night.

FAQ

Can you freeze split pea soup?

Yes, split pea soup freezes well for up to three months in airtight containers.

How do you thicken split pea soup?

Cook it longer to allow peas to break down or add mashed potatoes for extra thickness.

Is split pea soup healthy?

Absolutely! It’s high in protein, fiber, and vitamins while being low in fat.

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Split Pea Soup

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• Author: Maria Del
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Split pea soup is a comforting classic that warms both body and soul. This creamy, earthy dish combines the rich flavors of split peas, savory ham, and fresh vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion—from chilly evenings to casual gatherings. With its vibrant green color and hearty texture, this soup not only satisfies hunger but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this split pea soup will quickly become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dried green or yellow split peas
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ham bone or hock
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 1–2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse split peas under cold water until clear. Dice onions, carrots, and celery.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil; sauté onions until translucent.
3. Stir in carrots, celery, and rinsed split peas; mix well.
4. Add the ham bone or hock and enough vegetable broth to cover by an inch; bring to a gentle boil.
5. Add thyme and bay leaves; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes until the peas are soft.
6. Carefully remove the ham bone; shred remaining meat back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg