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Classic Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham

Close-up of a thick, green pea soup topped with diced ham and carrots in a white bowl.
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Make this classic split pea soup for a thick, satisfying, and comforting meal. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich, savory flavor perfect for a chilly day.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 ham bone (or 1 cup diced smoked ham)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Discard any small stones or debris.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed split peas, broth, ham bone (or diced ham), bay leaf, thyme, and pepper to the pot.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it simmer.
  6. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the peas are completely tender and the soup has thickened. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Remove and discard the bay leaf and the ham bone. If using a ham bone, shred any remaining meat from the bone and return it to the soup.
  8. Taste and add salt if needed, remembering that ham adds saltiness. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a quicker cooking time, you can use an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
  • This soup freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
  • If you do not have a ham bone, use 1 cup of diced smoked ham and 6 cups of vegetable broth, adding 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/classic-hearty-pea-soup-with-ham/