Easy Homemade Split Pea Soup
Creamy and hearty, this split pea soup combines smoky ham, tender vegetables, and fragrant thyme for a comforting meal perfect for chilly days and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly.
- Bring 6 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the rinsed peas to the boiling water and cook for about 1 hour.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of thyme, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
- Add the chopped medium onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot.
- Stir in the diced tavern ham slices.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for another hour until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot with crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding potatoes or kale. You can substitute dried split peas with canned peas; just adjust the cooking time. If you want a smoky flavor, add a bit of liquid smoke or use smoked turkey instead of tavern ham. To enhance the seasoning, try adding a bay leaf or a splash of vinegar before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting split pea soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad, such as Spinach Salad (Celebrity Favorite), for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a sandwich or some pickled vegetables for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the soup is too thick, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Homemade Split Pea Soup contains roughly 192 calories, with 11g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (464% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1974mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh peas instead of dried split peas?
Fresh peas cannot be directly substituted for dried split peas in this recipe, as they have a different cooking time and texture. If you wish to use fresh peas, consider making a different recipe or adding them towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this split pea soup vegetarian, simply omit the tavern ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke, to give it a savory depth.
What can I add to make this soup spicier?
To add some heat to your split pea soup, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions. You can also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce or Sriracha on top for a spicy kick.
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).