Aunt Mona'S Split Pea Soup With Ham
A hearty and comforting split pea soup with ham, packed with vegetables and smoky flavor, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, place the ham bone and water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, sauté the chopped onion in a bit of oil before adding it to the pot. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add spices like thyme or bay leaves to enhance the flavor. If you're short on time, use canned split peas instead of dried, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, like Manor Salad, for a balanced dinner. You can also garnish each bowl with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added richness. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of water if it has thickened too much, or microwave it in a covered dish until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mona'S Split Pea Soup With Ham contains roughly 367 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (238% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (133% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this soup?
Yes, you can use smoked turkey or chicken instead of a ham bone for a different flavor profile. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time to allow the meat to become tender. You can also add diced ham or sausage for a more traditional taste.
How can I thicken my split pea soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender, or mash some of the peas against the side of the pot. Adding more peas can also help thicken the soup naturally as they cook down.
Is it necessary to soak the split peas before cooking?
Soaking split peas is not necessary, but it can reduce cooking time slightly. If you choose to soak them, do so for a few hours or overnight. Just remember to drain and rinse them before adding to the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).