Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, combining the rich flavors of ham hocks and vegetables with the earthy taste of split peas. It's perfect for chilly evenings and suits families or anyone seeking a nourishing meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and cook on medium until it boils.
- Then cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
- Add water if necessary to achieve desired thickness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika. If you don't have ham hocks, diced bacon or smoked sausage can provide a similar smoky flavor. Ensure you rinse the split peas thoroughly to remove any debris before cooking. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the split pea soup hot, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. It pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a Grilled Ham Sandwich for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a light salad or browse more American recipes for additional sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much. Split pea soup also freezes well; just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Split Pea Soup contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 dried split peas instead of fresh ones?
Yes, dried split peas are commonly used in split pea soup and are actually the traditional choice. Just be sure to rinse and sort them before adding them to the soup. Dried peas will need to simmer longer than fresh ones, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of split pea soup, substitute vegetable broth for water and omit the ham hocks. You can add extra vegetables like celery or mushrooms for added depth and flavor. Season with smoked paprika to achieve a similar smokiness without the meat.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your split pea soup is too thick, simply stir in some additional water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Heating the soup on low while adding liquid gradually will help you achieve the perfect thickness without diluting the flavor.
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).