Warm Up with the Ultimate Homemade Split Pea Soup with Ham

As the cooler months arrive, there’s truly no better way to find comfort than with a steaming bowl of **split pea soup with ham**. This classic recipe brings together smoky ham, an abundance of hearty vegetables featuring tender split peas, and a blend of aromatic herbs, all simmered gently in a rich, savory broth. The result is a wonderfully smooth and deeply satisfying soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Discovering the Best Homemade Split Pea Soup Recipe

At Fit Foodie Finds, we believe in transforming simple ingredients and even leftovers into extraordinary meals. This homemade split pea soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to culinary resourcefulness. It’s the perfect way to utilize any leftover ham from a holiday feast, breathing new life into those delicious remnants. However, this split pea soup is so incredibly good, so rich in flavor, and so universally comforting, that you’ll undoubtedly want to prepare it all year round, not just after a ham-filled holiday.

With just a few straightforward ingredients – some quality ham, dried split peas, and a selection of fresh vegetables – you can create a culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen. This isn’t just another soup; it’s a hearty, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful experience waiting to happen. Get ready for this split pea soup with ham to become your new go-to comfort food.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Split Pea Soup

Creating an outstanding split pea soup with ham starts with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the soup’s distinctive flavor profile and comforting texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Ham: The star of the show! This recipe wisely uses both a meaty ham bone and diced ham. The ham bone is crucial for infusing the broth with incredible smoky depth and richness as it simmers, while the diced ham adds satisfying bites of savory meat to the finished soup. You can use a smoked ham hock, ham shank, or even a section of leftover holiday ham for maximum flavor.
• Fresh Aromatic Vegetables: A classic mirepoix of fresh onions, carrots, and celery forms the flavorful foundation of this soup. Minced garlic adds a pungent kick, while shiitake mushrooms contribute an earthy umami depth. These vegetables not only provide essential nutrients but also create a beautifully balanced flavor base for the peas and ham. Feel free to use other sturdy mushrooms if shiitake aren’t available.
• Dried Split Peas: Green split peas are the non-negotiable ingredient for this iconic soup. Unlike other legumes, split peas do not require pre-soaking, which significantly shortens preparation time. As they simmer, they break down naturally, creating the soup’s signature creamy and smooth texture.
• Vegetable Broth: We opt for vegetable broth in this recipe to allow the natural, potent smoked ham flavor to truly shine. However, feel free to use chicken broth or even homemade turkey broth if that’s what you have on hand. The key is a good quality broth to enhance the overall savory notes of the soup.
• Dijon Mustard: This might seem like an unconventional addition, but a touch of Dijon mustard is the secret ingredient that elevates the soup. Its tangy, slightly spicy notes perfectly complement the sweetness of the green peas and the saltiness of the ham, amplifying all the wonderful flavors without overpowering them.
• Fresh Herbs: A carefully chosen blend of fresh thyme and sage is essential for deepening the overall taste and adding an herbaceous aroma to the soup. Tying them together with cooking twine makes them easy to remove before serving. These robust herbs stand up beautifully to the rich ham and peas.

Recommended Equipment

Dutch Oven

A sturdy Dutch oven is our top choice for crafting this split pea soup. Its heavy bottom and excellent heat retention are ideal for simmering soups evenly, ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully. It’s perfect for one-pot meals, allowing you to sauté, simmer, and serve from the same vessel.

View Recommended Dutch Oven

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious Split Pea Soup with Ham

Follow these simple steps to create a rich, hearty, and unbelievably flavorful split pea soup that will quickly become a family favorite. The process is straightforward, focusing on building layers of flavor from the very beginning.

1. Sauté the Foundation of Flavor

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your minced onion to the pot, season it with ½ teaspoon of salt, and sauté gently for about 3 minutes until it starts to soften and become translucent. This initial step releases the onion’s sweet aromatics.

Next, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the diced carrots, celery, and mushrooms to the pot. Sprinkle in an additional 1 teaspoon of salt. Continue to sauté these vegetables for approximately 4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and their flavors to begin developing. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn bitter.

2. Combine and Build the Broth

With your aromatics beautifully sautéed, it’s time to introduce the main liquid components. Add the dried split peas, vegetable broth, water, Dijon mustard, and the remaining salt to the pot. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well combined. For the herbs, gather your fresh thyme and sage sprigs and tie them together with cooking twine to form a neat bundle. Submerge this herb bundle into the broth; this allows their flavors to infuse the soup easily, and makes for simple removal later.

Lastly, gently lower the ham bone into the soup, ensuring it’s mostly submerged. This bone will release incredible smoky flavor as the soup simmers. Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.

3. Simmer to Perfection

Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer. This low and slow cooking process is crucial for breaking down the split peas and allowing all the flavors to meld. Allow the soup to simmer for 1 hour, stirring periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. During this time, the peas will soften and begin to thicken the broth.

After 1 hour, carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. The meat should be tender enough to easily pull off the bone. Shred any meat from the bone and discard the bone. Add your diced ham (whether freshly diced or leftover) to the soup. Continue to let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes, which will allow the diced ham to heat through and further enrich the broth.

4. Thicken and Serve

Once the final simmer is complete, remove the herb bundle from the soup. Take the pot off the heat and let it sit, uncovered, for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the soup to naturally thicken further, achieving that desired creamy consistency. The longer it sits, the thicker it will become.

Ladle your gloriously tasty split pea soup into bowls. Serve it on its own for a wholesome meal, or accompany it with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream can add a lovely final touch. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup Experience

To ensure your homemade split pea soup with ham is absolutely perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

• **The Ham Bone is Key:** Don’t underestimate the power of a good ham bone. It’s the secret to an intensely smoky and deeply flavored broth. If you don’t have a ham bone, consider adding a smoked ham hock for a similar effect, or a dash of liquid smoke if absolutely necessary, though the bone is always preferred.
• **Adjusting Consistency:** Split pea soup naturally thickens as it cools due to the starches in the peas. If your soup seems too thick, simply thin it with a little extra broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can continue to simmer it uncovered for a bit longer, or for a quicker fix, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a small amount of cool broth in a separate bowl until smooth, then stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.
• **Season to Taste:** Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. The saltiness will vary depending on the ham and broth used. A little freshly ground black pepper or a splash of white wine vinegar can brighten the flavors.
• **Serving Suggestions:** While delicious on its own, split pea soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Crusty sourdough bread, garlic croutons, a side salad, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the meal.
• **Patience with Simmering:** Allow the soup its full simmering time. The peas need ample time to break down and create the creamy texture, and the flavors need to meld. Rushing this step will result in a less satisfying soup.

Customizing Your Split Pea Soup: Delicious Variations

This split pea soup with ham recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative!

Ham Varieties: While our smoked ham hock or ham bone provides unparalleled depth, other ham cuts work beautifully. Leftover ham, a ham shank, or even thick-cut ham steak can be diced and added. For an even smokier flavor, consider adding a few strips of crispy bacon bits as a garnish, or render some bacon fat to sauté your initial vegetables.

Vegetable Enhancements: The traditional combination of green split peas, carrots, and celery is a classic for a reason. However, you can easily incorporate other favorite vegetables. Diced potatoes or sweet potatoes can add extra heartiness, while a handful of spinach or kale stirred in during the last 10 minutes of simmering will boost nutrition and color. Feel free to experiment with yellow split peas for a slightly different color and mild flavor profile.

Broth Options: Any good quality broth will work, but we find vegetable broth allows the smoky ham to truly shine without competing flavors. For a richer, meatier broth, feel free to use chicken or even turkey broth, especially if you have homemade stock available. A high-quality beef broth can also provide a deeper flavor dimension.

Herb & Spice Alterations: While thyme and sage are wonderful, split pea soup also tastes fantastic with other herbs. Bay leaves, simmered with the broth and removed before serving, add a subtle, peppery note. Fresh parsley, stirred in at the end or used as a garnish, brings a fresh burst of flavor. For a touch of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika can add a welcome warmth.

Making it Vegetarian: To transform this into a vegetarian (or vegan) split pea soup, simply omit the ham and ham bone. Instead, use a robust vegetable broth and consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for that desired smoky flavor. You could also add some smoked tofu or vegan sausage for a heartier texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Soup with Ham

How to Store Split Pea & Ham Soup for Later

This split pea soup is fantastic for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week. Proper storage ensures its delicious flavors and comforting texture are preserved.

Refrigerator Storage: Once the soup has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight glass container. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent air exposure. Stored this way, your split pea soup with ham will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How to Freeze Leftover Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for future quick meals. Follow these steps for best results:

1. Cool Completely: It is crucial to let your soup cool down to room temperature before freezing. Freezing hot soup can lower the temperature of your freezer and affect other items.
2. Portion and Pack: Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty, gallon-size freezer bags. If using bags, lay them flat for easier storage and faster thawing. Leave a little headspace (about an inch) to allow for expansion during freezing.
3. Seal and Freeze: Seal your containers or bags tightly, removing as much air as possible. Place them in the freezer.
4. Duration: Your frozen split pea soup will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. Beyond this, it will still be safe to eat but might experience a slight decline in texture or flavor.
5. Reheating: To reheat, simply transfer the frozen soup to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, transfer it to a large pot on the stove and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can also reheat it gently in a slow cooker on low. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick after thawing.

5 from 2 votes

Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham

Smoky ham, hearty vegetables featuring tender split peas, and aromatic herbs simmer in a rich, savory broth to create a deliciously smooth and comforting split pea soup with ham.

By: Emily Richter

Prep: 30 mins

Cook: 1 hr 30 mins

Total: 2 hrs

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, separated
• 2 teaspoons salt, separated
• 1 medium onion, minced (~1.25 cups)
• 2 cups diced carrots
• 1.5 cups diced celery
• 8 oz. shiitake mushrooms, (~1 heaping cup, any type of mushrooms will work)
• 5 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 2 cups dried split peas
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups water
• 1.5 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 5 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 sprig fresh sage

For the Ham

• 1 ham bone with some meat attached
• 4 cups diced ham

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion to the pot and season with ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes until softened.
   
2. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, carrots, celery, and mushrooms to the onion with an additional 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté all of these vegetables for about 4 minutes, then add the garlic to the pot. Stir and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
   
3. Next, add the split peas, broth, water, mustard, and the remaining salt to the pot and stir until all the ingredients are combined. Tie the thyme and sage together with cooking twine and submerge the herb bundle in the broth.
   
4. Lastly, submerge the ham bone into the soup. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
   
5. Cover the pot and turn the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 1 hour, stirring periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Remove the ham bone from the pot. If there’s meat on the bone, shred it and add it to the soup, discarding the bone. Add the diced ham to the soup. Let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes to heat the ham through.
   
7. Remove the herb bundle from the soup. Take the soup off the heat and let it sit for 15 minutes, uncovered, to allow it to thicken naturally before serving.
8. Serve alone or with warm bread. Enjoy your tasty and comforting split pea soup!
   

Tips & Notes

• We used our smoked ham for this recipe, which contributes immensely to the broth’s rich, smoky flavor.
• The soup will continue to thicken significantly as it cools. If it becomes too thick, simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
• Many find this soup tastes even better the day after it’s made, as the flavors have more time to fully develop and meld.

Nutrition

Calories: 302 kcal, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 24 g, Fat: 6 g, Fiber: 15 g, Sugar: 9 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.