Split Pea Ham Soup

Name: Split Pea Ham Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup split green peas, rinsed; 1 smoked ham hock; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 3 celery stalks, diced; 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Dinners Recipes

I absolutely love making my Split Pea Ham Soup each winter. It's one of those recipes that fills the house with warmth and the delightful aroma of slow-cooked ham and vegetables. The texture is thick and creamy, while the flavors are rich and hearty, making it a perfect comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients, this soup comes together easily, and it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham. It has quickly become a family favorite that I cherish serving on chilly days.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-23T12:47:18.866Z

Making Split Pea Ham Soup has become a tradition in our home. I usually start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots to build the flavor base, and then I add the split peas and a meaty ham bone. The magic happens when everything simmers together, creating a creamy soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. I've learned that allowing it to sit for a few minutes off the heat enhances the flavors even more.

One time, I decided to add some fresh herbs from my garden, and it elevated the soup to a whole new level. A sprinkle of thyme or parsley just before serving can really brighten the dish. Each bowl is a reminder of cozy gatherings and the warmth of home-cooked meals.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold nights
Rich, smoky flavor from the ham enhances the soup
Easily adaptable; add your favorite vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a great Split Pea Ham Soup starts with the split green peas, which not only add thickness and creaminess but also provide a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber. Rinse them thoroughly before adding to the pot to remove any dust or debris. The peas will break down during cooking, creating that signature velvety texture that makes this soup so satisfying.

Using a smoked ham hock is crucial for infusing the soup with depth and a wonderful smoky flavor. As the ham hock simmers, it releases its essence into the broth, enhancing the overall taste. If you don't have a ham hock on hand, you can substitute with diced smoked sausage or even a chunk of leftover ham, but understand that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sautéing the vegetables at the start is not just a step to follow; it's essential for building a flavor base. Cook the onions until they are translucent and slightly caramelized, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This process releases their natural sugars and gives the soup a sweet, savory quality. Don't rush this step—good flavor takes time!

During the simmering phase, aim for a gentle boil rather than a rolling one. This prevents the peas from disintegrating too quickly and ensures a consistent texture. Stir the soup occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you notice it thickening too much before the peas are tender, simply add a splash more broth or water.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Split Pea Ham Soup:

Ingredients

1 cup split green peas, rinsed
1 smoked ham hock
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your hearty Split Pea Ham Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the split peas, ham hock, broth, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 60 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally, adding more broth if needed.

Season and Serve

Remove the ham hock from the pot, and shred the meat off the bone. Return the meat to the pot and discard the bone and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Split Pea Ham Soup!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. If you plan to serve it later, cool it to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen it up. It may thicken even more in the fridge, so don’t be alarmed! If you freeze it, consider portioning out servings for easy meals later.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Pair your Split Pea Ham Soup with rustic bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to brighten the flavors. A dash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick if you enjoy some heat.

Feel free to customize the soup by including other vegetables like diced potatoes, parsnips, or even kale for added nutrients. These can be incorporated during the sauté stage or added with the broth, just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender but not mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried split peas instead of fresh?

Yes, dried split peas are ideal for this recipe. Just make sure to rinse and sort them before using.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth, adding more vegetables for flavor.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.