Introduction:
Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is a classic comfort food, perfect for chilly days and hearty appetites. This soup is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients simmered together to create a rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal. The ham bone infuses the soup with a deep smoky depth that elevates the humble split pea to something truly special.
Imagine a bowl of thick, creamy soup, packed with tender split peas and flavorful vegetables. The savory aroma of ham permeates every spoonful, offering a comforting warmth and hearty satisfaction. This isn’t just soup; it’s a meal in a bowl, perfect for warming you from the inside out.
Whether you are looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or a way to make the most of a leftover ham bone, this Split Pea Soup recipe is an excellent choice. It’s easy to prepare, deeply flavorful, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the timeless appeal of homemade split pea soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
There are countless reasons why this recipe for Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is destined to become a go-to in your kitchen. Firstly, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the magic of the ham bone. Simmering a ham bone in the soup infuses it with a smoky, savory depth that you simply can’t achieve any other way. It’s the secret ingredient that takes this soup from good to outstanding.
Secondly, this recipe is wonderfully economical and resourceful. It’s a fantastic way to use up a leftover ham bone after a holiday dinner or roast, ensuring no part of the delicious ham goes to waste. Split peas themselves are also very budget-friendly, making this a hearty and affordable meal option. It’s a recipe that’s both thrifty and delicious.
Finally, this Split Pea Soup is remarkably easy to make, despite its rich and complex flavor. It’s largely a hands-off recipe, perfect for busy days. Simply sauté some vegetables, add the remaining ingredients, and let it simmer away. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a truly satisfying soup with minimal effort.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To create this comforting and flavorful Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone, you’ll need a selection of pantry staples and a few key ingredients to build its signature depth of flavor. The star of the soup is, undoubtedly, split peas. Green split peas are the classic choice for split pea soup, providing a creamy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. You can also use yellow split peas for a slightly different, earthier taste. Good quality split peas are essential for a hearty and flavorful soup.
The ham bone is the flavor powerhouse of this recipe. Use a leftover ham bone from a roasted ham or purchase a ham bone specifically for soup making. A meaty ham bone with some ham still attached will yield the most flavorful soup. The ham bone infuses the soup with a smoky, savory richness.
Vegetables form the aromatic base and add texture and nutrients to the soup. Yellow onion provides a foundational savory flavor. Carrots add sweetness and color. Celery contributes a subtle celery flavor and aroma. These classic soup vegetables build a flavorful and nutritious base.
Garlic is essential for adding aromatic depth and pungent flavor. Fresh garlic cloves are highly recommended for the most robust garlic taste. Mincing the garlic finely ensures it infuses the soup with its flavor throughout. Fresh garlic is superior to garlic powder in this recipe.
Chicken broth or vegetable broth serves as the liquid base of the soup. Chicken broth adds richer flavor, while vegetable broth keeps it lighter and suitable for those avoiding meat-based broths (though this recipe is not vegetarian due to the ham bone). Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt level. Good quality broth enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Dried bay leaves and dried thyme are the key herbs for seasoning the soup, adding classic savory and herbaceous notes. Bay leaves impart a subtle tea-like flavor and aroma during simmering. Thyme provides a warm, earthy, and slightly minty flavor. These dried herbs create a classic and comforting seasoning profile.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors in the soup. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Freshly cracked black pepper provides a more aromatic and nuanced flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Proper seasoning is crucial for a well-balanced and flavorful soup.
Optional additions such as smoked paprika can be used to further enhance the smoky flavor, especially if your ham bone is less smoky. Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of smoky depth and complexity. It is particularly useful if you desire a more pronounced smoky flavor. A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can be added at the end to brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the soup. Acidic additions provide a welcome brightness and balance to rich soups.
HOW TO MAKE “Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone”:
Making homemade Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is a comforting and straightforward culinary process. The recipe centers around the principle of simmering, a gentle, low-heat cooking method that allows flavors to meld and deepen over time. Simmering is ideal for soups, as it tenderizes ingredients and extracts maximum flavor.
The recipe is structured into clear, easy-to-follow steps. It begins with sautéing aromatic vegetables to build a flavor base, then adding the split peas, ham bone, broth, and seasonings. The soup then simmers slowly until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Finally, the ham bone is removed, the ham is shredded (if any), and returned to the soup.
By carefully following the step-by-step instructions, even novice cooks can easily achieve a delicious and satisfying Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone at home. The simplicity of the method belies the incredible depth of flavor and comforting nature of the finished soup. Get ready to enjoy a classic and hearty soup that will warm you from the inside out.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Using a large, heavy pot ensures even heating and prevents scorching during simmering. Olive oil adds flavor and prevents sticking.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Sautéing vegetables softens them and brings out their sweetness, building a flavor base for the soup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, or until fragrant. Garlic should be sautéed briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it as burnt garlic can be bitter.
Step 2: Add Split Peas, Ham Bone, and Broth. Add the split peas to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add the ham bone to the pot, nestling it among the vegetables and split peas. Pour in the chicken broth or vegetable broth, ensuring it covers the split peas and ham bone. Broth provides the liquid base for the soup and infuses it with flavor.
Add the bay leaves and dried thyme to the pot. Bay leaves and thyme provide classic soup seasonings and aromatic depth. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Start with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, knowing you can adjust seasoning later. Proper seasoning is crucial for flavorful soup.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the split peas are very tender and have broken down, and the soup has thickened. Simmering over low heat allows the flavors to meld and deepen and the split peas to break down and thicken the soup naturally. Covering the pot helps to retain moisture and heat during simmering. Simmering time may vary slightly depending on the age and type of split peas. Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Remove Ham Bone and Shred Ham. After simmering for 1.5 to 2 hours, or when the split peas are very tender and soup is thickened, remove the ham bone from the pot using tongs. Carefully remove the hot ham bone and place it on a cutting board or plate to cool slightly.
Once the ham bone is cool enough to handle, shred or cut off any ham meat remaining on the bone. Remove and discard any skin, fat, or bone pieces. Shredding or cutting the ham into bite-sized pieces makes it easier to eat in the soup. Return the shredded ham meat to the pot of soup. Returning the ham meat adds protein and the delicious ham flavor back into the soup. Discard the ham bone itself.
Step 5: Blend Soup (Optional). For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, let the soup cool slightly and carefully ladle batches of soup into a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot. Blending is optional, depending on your preferred soup texture. Immersion blenders are convenient for blending soup directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and vent the lid to avoid hot soup splattering.
If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip the blending step and simply mash some of the split peas against the side of the pot with a spoon or potato masher to thicken the soup slightly. Mashing some peas thickens the soup naturally while retaining some chunky texture.
Step 6: Season and Serve. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to taste to reach your desired flavor profile. Proper final seasoning is crucial for a well-balanced soup. If desired, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. Acidic additions brighten the flavors and balance the richness. If desired, stir in a pinch of smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor. Smoked paprika enhances the smoky depth of the soup.
Serve the Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone hot. Serve hot for optimal enjoyment and warmth. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt, fresh parsley, or croutons if desired. Garnishes add visual appeal and textural contrast. Enjoy this hearty and comforting soup as a main course. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
USEFUL TIPS:
Soaking the split peas for at least 4 hours or overnight before cooking can help them cook faster and more evenly. Soaking rehydrates the peas and helps to break down complex sugars, potentially reducing cooking time and improving digestibility. Drain and rinse the soaked split peas before adding them to the soup.
Browning the ham bone in the pot before adding the vegetables and broth can add an extra layer of flavor. Browning caramelizes the ham bone and creates fond (browned bits) at the bottom of the pot, enhancing the flavor depth of the soup. Remove the ham bone after browning before sautéing vegetables, then return it to the pot later.
For a vegetarian version (without ham bone flavor), you can omit the ham bone entirely and use smoked paprika to add a smoky flavor note. Smoked paprika provides a smoky element without meat. You can also add a vegetarian “ham” flavoring or smoked salt for a similar taste profile, though it will not be as rich as using a ham bone. Vegetarian versions will lack the depth and richness of a ham bone based soup, but can still be flavorful.
If you want a smoother soup without blending, you can use yellow split peas, which tend to break down more completely during cooking than green split peas. Yellow split peas naturally create a creamier texture as they cook down. Alternatively, cook the soup for a longer time to allow the green split peas to break down further.
For a richer soup, you can use bone-in ham hocks instead of a ham bone. Ham hocks are very flavorful and contain more meat and collagen, which will enrich the soup and add body. Ham hocks typically require longer cooking times to become tender.
If you like a thinner soup, add more broth to reach your desired consistency. Soup consistency is a matter of personal preference. Add broth gradually to adjust to your ideal thickness.
To add more vegetables, consider adding diced potatoes, turnips, or parsnips along with the carrots and celery. Root vegetables complement split pea soup and add heartiness and nutrients. Add root vegetables at the same time as carrots and celery.
DETAILS:
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time for split peas, if desired). The preparation time includes chopping vegetables, mincing garlic, and measuring out other ingredients. Soaking split peas adds to prep time if chosen. Efficient prep work streamlines the cooking process. Proper preparation ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
Cook Time: 1.5 – 2 hours. The cooking time is primarily simmering time for the soup to allow split peas to tenderize and flavors to meld. Simmering time may vary slightly depending on split pea type and desired soup thickness. Long simmering is key to developing flavor and texture.
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes – 2 hours 20 minutes (plus soaking time, if desired). The total time from start to finish, including prep and cook time, is approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes (excluding soaking time). This is a moderate time commitment for a hearty and flavorful soup. Much of the total time is hands-off simmering time.
Yield: 6-8 servings. This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, suitable for a family meal or meal prepping. Serving size can be adjusted based on individual appetites and serving context. Yield is sufficient for a family dinner or leftovers.
Category: Soup, Main Course, Comfort Food. Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is categorized as a soup, main course, and comfort food. It is hearty enough to be a main meal, and its comforting nature makes it classic comfort food. Categorization highlights its versatility as a substantial and comforting dish.
Method: Simmering, Sautéing. The primary cooking method is simmering for the soup, combined with sautéing vegetables to build flavor. Simmering gently cooks and tenderizes ingredients. Sautéing builds flavor base for vegetables. These methods combine to create the final dish.
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food, Classic. Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is a classic American comfort food dish. Its long history and widespread popularity classify it as a classic recipe. American cuisine often features hearty and flavorful soups, and this is a prime example. Cuisine reflects the recipe’s origin and cultural relevance.
Diet: Not Vegetarian (contains ham), Adaptable (can be modified). The base recipe is not vegetarian due to the ham bone. It can be adapted to be vegetarian by omitting the ham bone and using vegetarian broth and smoky seasonings (see tips), though it will not be the same flavor profile. Diet category highlights its standard form (non-vegetarian) and potential for modification.
NOTES:
One note on split peas is to rinse them thoroughly before cooking, even if the package says it’s not necessary. Rinsing removes any debris and helps to prevent excess foam during cooking. Rinsing split peas is a good practice for cleanliness and soup clarity.
Another note is that the soup will thicken as it cools. Split pea soup naturally thickens upon cooling due to the starch in the split peas. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or water when reheating. Soup consistency can be adjusted to preference.
Bay leaves are used for flavor infusion and should be removed before serving as they are not meant to be eaten. Bay leaves release their aroma during simmering and should be removed for safety and texture reasons before consumption. Remember to remove bay leaves before serving.
For a more intense smoky ham flavor, you can use a smoked ham hock instead of a ham bone. Smoked ham hocks are intensely smoky and will impart a stronger smoked ham flavor to the soup. Smoked ham hocks can be swapped for ham bones for a different flavor intensity.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is very well-suited to be made in a slow cooker. To make it in a slow cooker, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a skillet on the stovetop as directed in Step 1 and then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the rinsed split peas, ham bone, garlic, broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the split peas are very tender and broken down. Remove ham bone, shred ham, return ham to slow cooker, and season as directed in recipe steps 4-6. Slow cooking is a hands-off method ideal for split pea soup.
Q: Can I make this split pea soup without soaking the peas?
A: Yes, you can make split pea soup without soaking the peas, but soaking can shorten the cooking time. Split peas, unlike some other dried beans, do not require soaking. However, soaking split peas for at least 4 hours or overnight can help them cook faster and more evenly. If you choose not to soak, simply add the unsoaked rinsed split peas to the soup and increase the simmering time. Unsoaked peas will take longer to become tender and break down, so adjust simmering time accordingly.
Q: What are good side dishes to serve with split pea soup?
A: Split pea soup is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with simple side dishes. Crusty bread, such as sourdough or French bread, is a classic accompaniment for dipping and soaking up the soup. A simple side salad, like a green salad or a Caesar salad, provides a fresh and contrasting element. Cornbread or biscuits are also popular choices for a comforting side. Grilled cheese sandwiches can be a nostalgic and satisfying pairing. Choose side dishes that complement the heartiness of the soup without being overly heavy.
Q: How long does split pea soup last in the refrigerator?
A: Split pea soup with ham bone will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. Allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly within 2 hours of cooking. Proper refrigeration is crucial for food safety. Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days for best quality and to minimize risk of bacterial growth. Use your senses (sight, smell, taste) to assess the quality of leftovers before consuming.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
To ensure your leftover Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone remains safe and delicious for later enjoyment, proper storage is key. Allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Do not place hot food directly into the refrigerator, as this can raise the refrigerator temperature and potentially affect food safety and soup texture. Cooling to room temperature before refrigerating is recommended.
Once cooled, transfer the split pea soup to airtight containers. Portion the soup into individual servings or larger containers depending on your needs. Airtight containers prevent air exposure, maintain moisture, and prevent odor absorption in the refrigerator.
Store the airtight containers of leftover split pea soup in the refrigerator. Refrigerate leftovers promptly within 2 hours of cooking to ensure food safety. Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. Proper refrigeration is crucial for preventing bacterial growth and maintaining food safety.
Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days for the best quality and food safety. While leftovers may remain safe to eat for longer, the texture and flavor of split pea soup can degrade over time, and food safety risks increase. For optimal taste and to minimize health risks, consume leftovers within this timeframe. Always use your senses—sight, smell, and taste—to assess the quality of leftovers before consuming.
When reheating leftover split pea soup, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a little water or broth to thin it out, as the soup tends to thicken upon refrigeration. Reheating gently prevents scorching and helps maintain the texture and flavor. Avoid boiling the soup vigorously during reheating. Microwaving is also an option for reheating individual portions, but stovetop reheating is generally preferred for better texture control.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed this recipe for Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone, you will surely enjoy these other hearty and comforting soup variations. Consider trying Ham and Bean Soup for another classic soup featuring ham and beans. Ham and bean soup offers a different bean base (often navy beans or Great Northern beans) but shares the savory ham flavor and hearty nature of split pea soup. It’s a delicious alternative for bean soup lovers.
Another excellent option is Lentil Soup with Ham. Lentil soup with ham features lentils instead of split peas, creating a different texture and flavor profile while still incorporating ham for savory depth. Lentil soup is often quicker to cook than split pea soup and offers a different legume-based soup experience.
For a vegetarian split pea soup, explore Vegetarian Split Pea Soup with Smoked Paprika. Vegetarian split pea soup offers a meatless version focusing on smoky flavors achieved with smoked paprika and other vegetarian-friendly flavor enhancers. It provides a vegetarian alternative for those who enjoy the taste of split pea soup but want to avoid ham. These related recipes offer diverse legume and flavor profiles while maintaining the comforting and hearty soup format, providing a range of delicious options to explore beyond Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone.
CONCLUSION
Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is a soup that truly embodies the essence of comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. This recipe offers a simple yet time-tested approach to creating a classic split pea soup that highlights the incredible flavor of a ham bone and transforms humble split peas into a culinary delight. It’s a soup that warms both the body and the soul, perfect for any time you crave a comforting and nourishing meal.
Whether you’re looking for a way to use up a leftover ham bone, a budget-friendly and filling dinner, or simply a taste of classic homemade goodness, this Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone recipe is sure to deliver. The slow simmering process unlocks a depth of flavor that belies its simple ingredients, creating a soup that is greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a dish that’s been cherished for generations for good reason – it’s simply delicious.
So, gather your ingredients, simmer up a pot of this hearty soup, and prepare to experience the simple joy of homemade Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone. Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to your liking, adding your favorite vegetables, seasonings, or garnishes to create your own personalized version of this classic soup. Embrace the simplicity, savor the flavors, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of every spoonful. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious Split Pea Soup!
