A comforting and hearty soup made with tender split peas, flavorful ham, and a mix of vegetables. This classic dish is perfect for using leftover ham and makes for a satisfying meal on a chilly day. It’s rich, thick, and gets better the longer it simmers.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, celery, and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add split peas, ham bone or diced ham, broth, and bay leaf.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover partially.
6. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and soup thickens.
7. Remove bay leaf and ham bone, if using. Shred any remaining meat from the bone and return it to the pot.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot and enjoy.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 10g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 600mg (varies with broth and ham used)

The Role of Ham in Enhancing Flavor

Ham adds a distinct smoky and savory depth to the soup. Whether using a meaty ham bone or diced cooked ham, it enriches the broth with umami flavors that elevate the overall taste. The slow simmering process extracts the essence of the ham, creating a rich and comforting base that complements the earthy flavor of the split peas.

Ideal for Leftover Ham Usage

This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover ham from holidays like Easter or Christmas. The inclusion of a ham bone adds both flavor and nutrition, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. If you have diced ham stored in your refrigerator or freezer, it’s easy to thaw and incorporate into the soup for a quick and filling meal.

Perfect for Batch Cooking and Freezing

Ham and split pea soup is a great candidate for batch cooking. The recipe can be easily doubled or tripled and stored in portioned containers in the freezer for future meals. This makes it ideal for meal prepping or stocking up on homemade meals during the colder months. The flavors continue to develop over time, making leftovers taste even better.

Health-Friendly Substitutions

For those watching their sodium intake, low-sodium broth can be used without compromising the flavor, especially when a ham bone is included. Turkey ham or smoked turkey legs are excellent substitutes for traditional pork ham, offering a lower-fat alternative. Vegetarians can make a meatless version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth along with smoked paprika for that depth of flavor.

Cultural and Historical Background

Split pea soup has roots in many cultures, from the Dutch “erwtensoep” to the classic American version often made with leftover ham. It’s a dish that historically arose from the need to use inexpensive ingredients in a nourishing way. Over time, it became a beloved staple in both home kitchens and diners across the United States, often featured as a comfort food.

Great Source of Plant-Based Protein

Split peas are legumes, making them an excellent plant-based protein source. When paired with a small portion of animal protein like ham, the dish provides a complete amino acid profile. This makes the soup especially beneficial for those looking to reduce meat consumption while still meeting their protein needs.

Supports Digestive Health

Thanks to its high fiber content, split pea soup is beneficial for digestive health. Soluble fiber from split peas helps regulate blood sugar levels, lowers cholesterol, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. The addition of carrots, celery, and onions also contributes to the fiber content, making the soup not just tasty but good for your gut.

Budget-Friendly and Accessible

This soup is incredibly affordable to prepare. Dried split peas are inexpensive and shelf-stable, making them a great pantry staple. Vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions are also low-cost and widely available year-round. Using leftover ham or soup bones makes the recipe even more economical, maximizing the use of every ingredient.

Customizable for Various Diets

The base recipe can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences. For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of peas or add in more non-starchy vegetables like spinach or zucchini. For added richness, a splash of cream or coconut milk can be stirred in at the end. You can also spice it up with chili flakes or herbs like thyme and rosemary.

Hearty and Satisfying Meal Option

Ham and split pea soup is a complete meal on its own. It’s hearty enough to keep you full for hours, thanks to the combination of protein, fiber, and complex carbs. It’s a great option for cold weather, providing warmth and nourishment in every spoonful.

One-Pot Convenience

This is a true one-pot meal, requiring minimal cleanup. All ingredients are simmered together, and there’s no need for fancy equipment or multiple pans. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to prepare something wholesome without the mess.

Perfect for Slow Cookers or Instant Pots

While traditionally made on the stovetop, this soup adapts well to slow cookers and pressure cookers. In a slow cooker, it can be set in the morning and ready by dinner time. In an Instant Pot, it cooks in under an hour, making it great for quick meals with minimal hands-on time.

Great for Immune Support

The soup’s ingredients provide a range of nutrients that support immune health. Garlic, onions, and carrots are known for their immune-boosting properties, while the warm broth can be soothing during cold and flu season. The overall nutritional profile makes it a supportive food for overall wellness.

Comfort Food Classic

There’s a reason this soup is considered classic comfort food. The creamy texture, savory flavor, and satisfying nature make it a go-to recipe when you’re craving something cozy. It’s nostalgic for many, evoking memories of family dinners and homemade meals.

Low in Fat, High in Flavor

Despite being hearty and flavorful, the soup is relatively low in fat, especially if lean ham is used. It’s possible to make a rich and delicious version without added cream or butter, relying instead on the natural starch from split peas to create a thick and velvety texture.

Kid-Friendly and Nutritious

The mild flavors and soft texture of this soup make it kid-friendly. It’s a great way to sneak in vegetables and legumes without much fuss. Serving it with crusty bread or grilled cheese can make it more appealing to younger palates.

Great Pairings and Sides

While the soup is a meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad. For a more indulgent option, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a baked potato. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate each bowl.

Tips for Best Texture and Flavor

To achieve the best texture, allow the soup to simmer slowly, giving the peas enough time to break down naturally. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking and promotes even cooking. If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

Conclusion

Ham and split pea soup is a timeless, nourishing dish that’s as practical as it is delicious. It makes the most of humble ingredients, delivers a powerful nutritional punch, and offers immense comfort in every bite. Whether you’re using up holiday leftovers, cooking for a family, or meal prepping for the week, this soup ticks all the boxes. Its versatility, affordability, and health benefits make it a recipe worth returning to again and again.