Burt'S Favorite Split Pea Soup
Burt's Favorite Split Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting dish infused with smoky ham, tender vegetables, and creamy richness, perfect for cozy family dinners or cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the split peas in water overnight.
- Cook the salt pork for 5 minutes to render some fat.
- Add chopped carrots and onions to the salt pork and cook about 10 minutes until soft.
- Add the soaked peas, seasonings, and ham bone or shank to the pot.
- Cover and bring the mixture slowly to a boil.
- Add the chopped potatoes.
- Reduce heat and simmer gently for about 2 hours until the peas are tender.
- Remove the ham bone or shank from the soup.
- Strain the soup to remove any solids if desired.
- Remove all meat from the ham bone, dice it, and add it back into the hot soup.
- Stir in sugar and butter.
- Optionally, add 1/2 cup of thin cream and garnish with parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting bacon for the salt pork. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. If you're short on time, use canned split peas, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs like thyme can be replaced with dried, using about a third of the amount. This dish can be easily customized with vegetables like celery or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the split pea soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cold Ham - Pasta Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or croutons on top. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as part of a Christmas Brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Burt'S Favorite Split Pea Soup contains roughly 525 calories, with 14g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (110% of the Daily Value), iron (96% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 22g 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 make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the salt pork and ham bone. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. You can also add smoked paprika for a smoky taste that mimics the flavor of meat.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If the soup is thinner than desired, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender or regular blender to create a creamier texture. Alternatively, simmer the soup uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and thicken naturally.
Can I freeze the split pea soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).