Split Pea Soup with Smoked Ham

Split Pea Soup with Smoked Ham is a hearty, comforting classic that’s perfect for chilly days. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein and fiber, this soup combines tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and the smoky depth of ham to create a satisfying one-pot meal.

Traditionally slow-cooked to allow the flavors to meld, it’s both rustic and nourishing. Ideal for family dinners, lunch meal prep, or cozy evenings, this soup delivers a warm, homey feeling with every spoonful. The combination of earthy peas and smoky ham creates a taste that’s simply unforgettable.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both comforting and nourishing. The natural sweetness of split peas perfectly balances the smoky, savory ham. Every spoonful has a creamy, velvety texture without the need for heavy cream. It’s a one-pot meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, easy to prepare, and highly satisfying.

The leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen. It’s a wholesome, budget-friendly recipe that never fails to bring warmth and joy to the dinner table.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Split Pea Soup is a must-try because it’s nutritious, filling, and full of flavor. The combination of split peas and smoked ham provides protein, fiber, and a hearty texture that keeps you full. Its slow-cooked richness makes it perfect for cold weather or when you want a comforting meal.

Additionally, it’s versatile — you can adjust the seasonings, add vegetables, or make it vegetarian by skipping the ham. It’s classic, cozy, and a guaranteed family favorite that warms both the heart and stomach.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Cuisine: American / Classic Comfort Food
• Course: Soup / Main Course

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups diced smoked ham
• Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until soft.
2. Add split peas, broth, water, thyme, bay leaf, and seasoning.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 60 minutes.
4. Add diced smoked ham and cook another 10 minutes.
5. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Rinse and sort split peas. Dice onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cut smoked ham into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.

Step 3: Add Peas and Liquid
Stir in split peas, broth, and water. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer gently for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and the soup is creamy.

Step 5: Add Ham
Stir in the diced smoked ham and cook for another 10 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers.

How to Serve

Serve hot as a main course or a hearty starter. Pair with fresh bread, rolls, or a simple side salad. This soup is perfect for cozy dinners, lunch leftovers, or even as a freezer-friendly meal for busy days.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Soak split peas briefly to reduce cooking time, though it’s optional.
• Use homemade broth for maximum flavor.
• Stir occasionally to prevent peas from sticking to the bottom.
• For extra creaminess, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit ham and use vegetable broth; add smoked paprika for depth.
• Smoky Bacon Version: Replace ham with diced cooked bacon.
• Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked chili powder.
• Root Vegetable Boost: Add parsnips or turnips for extra flavor and texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add extra water or broth if soup thickens after freezing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Knife and cutting board
• Optional: immersion blender for creamy texture

Conclusion

Split Pea Soup with Smoked Ham is a classic, hearty, and nourishing dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy texture, smoky depth, and wholesome ingredients make it a perfect meal for cold days, family dinners, or meal prep.

Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and versatile, it’s a recipe that satisfies both taste and nutrition. Cozy, flavorful, and truly comforting, this soup is a staple that will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.