The Best Split Pea Soup
A hearty, comforting split pea soup infused with smoky ham flavor, perfect for cold days and loved by families seeking a nourishing, savory meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the dried split peas and water to boiling; boil gently for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cover; let stand for 1 hour.
- Add the ham bone, minced celery, chopped onion, parsley sprig, and pepper to the pot.
- Reheat to boiling, then reduce heat and simmer for 2½ to 3 hours until peas are very soft.
- Remove the ham bone; trim meat from the bone and add it back to the soup.
- If desired, thin the soup with milk or water; season to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before serving. If you don’t have a ham bone, you can substitute with diced ham or smoked turkey for a similar flavor. Adding a bay leaf during simmering can enhance the taste, just remember to remove it before serving. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish, so feel free to experiment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the split pea soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Savory Apple Pork Chops for a hearty dinner. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs or croutons on top before serving. This soup is also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk if the soup has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Best Split Pea Soup contains roughly 167 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (298% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 14g 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 split pea soup vegetarian by omitting the ham bone and using vegetable broth instead of water. You can add more vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
How do I know when the split peas are done?
The split peas are done when they are very soft and have broken down, creating a thick, creamy consistency. This usually takes about 2½ to 3 hours of simmering. You can taste a few peas to ensure they are tender.
Can I add other ingredients to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, potatoes, or even some chopped kale for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure all ingredients are cooked through.
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).