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Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham

Close-up of a white mug filled with thick, green pea soup topped with chunks of ham and carrots.
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Make this hearty and wholesome split pea soup with ham. It results in a thick, creamy texture perfect for a cold day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced smoked ham
  • 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 rinsed split peas, chicken broth, ham hock (or diced ham), bay leaf, thyme, and pepper to the pot.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially.
  5. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the peas are completely soft and the soup has thickened.
  6. If using a ham hock, remove it, shred the meat, discard the bone and skin, and return the meat to the soup.
  7. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed, as the ham may add sufficient salt.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
  • If the soup becomes too thick, add a little water or extra broth until you reach your desired consistency.
  • This soup thickens considerably as it cools, making it excellent for meal prep.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonsprout.com/easy-pea-soup-with-ham-recipe/