Name: Split Pea Soup Recipe: Hearty and Comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 1 lb dried green split peas (rinsed); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion (diced); 2 medium carrots (diced); 2 celery stalks (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup diced ham (optional); 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 medium potato (diced (optional)); Optional: Parsley (croutons); Suggested Pairings: Crusty bread (apple cider)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Split Pea Soup is a classic, heartwarming dish, perfect for cozy dinners, family meals, or meal prep during chilly days. This rich, velvety soup combines dried split peas, aromatic vegetables, and optional ham for a savory, satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and comforting. Presented in white ceramic bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or croutons, this soup offers a warm, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe delivers a traditional version with flexibility for vegetarian diets, ideal for home cooks seeking a wholesome, flavorful soup that embodies rustic comfort.

Ingredients

For the Split Pea Soup:

1 lb dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced ham (optional, or use 1 ham hock for deeper flavor)
6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 medium potato, diced (optional, for creaminess)

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil
Suggested Accompaniments: Crusty bread, cornbread
Suggested Pairings: Apple cider, herbal tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in white ceramic bowls
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, wooden spoon, immersion blender or regular blender (optional), cutting board, knife

Step-by-Step Process

Prep Split Peas: Rinse split peas under cold water and sort to remove any debris. Set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Main Ingredients: Stir in split peas, ham (or ham hock, if using), broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, pepper, and potato (if using). Bring to a boil.
Simmer Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until peas are soft and soup is thickened. If using a ham hock, remove it, shred the meat, and return the meat to the pot.
Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot. Skip for a chunkier soup.
Taste and Adjust: Sample the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional thyme to achieve a balanced flavor.
Serve: Ladle soup into white ceramic bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with crusty bread, cornbread, apple cider, or herbal tea.

Tips for Better Split Pea Soup

Rinse split peas thoroughly to remove excess starch and ensure a clean flavor.
Taste before serving to balance seasoning, as broth and ham vary in saltiness.
Simmer gently to avoid scorching; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Use a ham hock for richer flavor, but diced ham is quicker and still delicious.
Add potato for extra creaminess without blending, or blend for a velvety texture.
Skim foam from the surface during simmering for a clearer broth.
Make ahead for deeper flavor; the soup thickens and tastes better the next day.
Enhance aesthetic: Serve in white ceramic bowls with vibrant parsley or golden croutons for a cozy, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Vegetarian Split Pea Soup: Omit ham and use vegetable broth; add 1/2 cup diced mushrooms for umami flavor.
Vegan Split Pea Soup: Use vegetable broth, omit ham, and replace olive oil with vegan butter or additional broth for sautéing.
Gluten-Free Split Pea Soup: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth and croutons (if used) are gluten-free certified.
Low-Sodium Split Pea Soup: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt; taste carefully to adjust seasoning.
Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño with garlic for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Split Pea Soup: Replace thyme with 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or dill for a unique herbal note.
Creamy Split Pea Soup: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk after simmering for a richer texture.
Smoky Split Pea Soup: Add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or use smoked ham for a smoky flavor.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to thin if needed.
Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Serve hot for maximum comfort; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 2 hours due to potential meat content.
Use leftovers as a base for casseroles or blend into a dip for bread.
Pair with crusty bread or cornbread to complement the hearty texture.
Present in white ceramic bowls with parsley or croutons for a warm, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (1.5 cups each):

Calories: 260 kcal
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg (0mg if vegetarian)
Sodium: 780mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 15g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 18g
Vitamin A: 50% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in fiber; try low-sodium versions. Pair with vegetables for added nutrients.

Conclusion

This Split Pea Soup recipe offers a hearty, comforting dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a rustic classic. Its straightforward preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The velvety peas, savory broth, and vibrant garnishes delight every spoonful. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its wholesome, heartwarming appeal.