French Canadian Split Pea Soup
A hearty and comforting French Canadian split pea soup with smoky ham, tender vegetables, and creamy richness, perfect for chilly days and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peas, ham, onion, bouillon, water, salt, and pepper in a kettle.
- Bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring often.
- Remove the ham bone, dice the meat, and return it to the kettle along with the carrots and celery.
- Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Cook bacon until crisp, drain, and crumble.
- Stir in the bacon, cream, and butter, then heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or thyme while simmering. If you don't have a ham bone, diced smoked sausage can be a great substitute. Adjust the amount of bouillon granules to your taste preference. To thicken the soup, blend a portion of it and mix back in. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be made in bulk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish. It pairs beautifully with Quick Ginger Chicken for a balanced dinner. Enjoy it as a comforting lunch option, perfect for chilly days.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Canadian Split Pea Soup contains roughly 619 calories, with 18g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (275% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% 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 make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of water. Add extra vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You can also use liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor usually provided by ham.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce while simmering. You can also sauté some diced jalapeños with the onions at the beginning. Adjust to your preferred spice level for a delicious kick.
What can I serve with split pea soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even a side of pickles. For a more filling meal, consider pairing it with Rafus' Cajun Rice for a flavorful contrast.
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).