Best Easy Split Pea Soup with Ham Recipe

Thick, hearty split pea soup with smoky ham is a high protein, family-style comfort bowl that's rich and filling. This budget-friendly classic is perfect for meal prep and freezer meals.

Cook 135 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#high protein #family dinner #meal prep #freezer-friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • dried split peas 2 cups
  • ham (diced or ham bone) 12 oz
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • carrots 2 pieces
  • celery stalks 2 pieces
  • russet potato 1 pieces
  • garlic cloves 3 cloves
  • bay leaf 1 pieces
  • low-sodium chicken broth 6 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • dried thyme 0.5 tsp
  • kosher salt 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 42 g 49%
Protein 22 g 26%
Fat 7 g 18%
Serving size 350g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

  2. 2

    Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic, being careful not to brown the garlic.

  3. 3

    Add the split peas, ham (or ham bone), cubed potato, bay leaf, dried thyme, black pepper, and low-sodium chicken broth. Increase heat to bring to a gentle boil.

  4. 4

    Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 70-90 minutes. Stir occasionally and skim any foam that rises to the surface. Simmer until peas are soft and soup is thickened.

  5. 5

    Remove the bay leaf and ham bone (if used). Taste and add kosher salt as needed. For creamier texture, mash some peas lightly with a spoon or use an immersion blender briefly. Serve hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this split pea soup recipe?
The key ingredient in this recipe is dried split peas, which provide the soup's signature creamy texture and hearty body. The addition of smoky ham further defines its rich flavor and protein content, making the soup both satisfying and balanced.
Q. How should I manage the heat while cooking split pea soup to avoid burning?
Start by sautéing the vegetables over medium heat to develop flavor without browning. Once the broth and peas are added, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat for a slow simmer. This gradual, steady simmer is crucial—too high a flame can scorch the bottom, while too low may undercook the peas.
Q. How can I ensure the soup has a creamy texture without overcooking?
Simmer the soup uncovered or partially covered, stir from time to time, and test the peas for doneness after about 70-90 minutes. For a creamy finish, mash some of the peas with a spoon or briefly use an immersion blender, but avoid over-blending so the soup doesn’t turn gluey.
Q. What is the nutrition profile per serving for this recipe?
Each 350g serving provides approximately 340 kcal, featuring 22g of protein (26% of calories), 42g of carbohydrates (49%), and 7g of fat (18%). The soup is high in protein and lower in fat, making it a balanced and nourishing choice for family meals.
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