Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham and Vegetables

This Split Pea Soup recipe, passed down from my mother, is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a comforting meal. Packed with tender split peas, hearty ham, and a variety of fresh vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and healthy. The combination of flavors from the thyme, bay leaves, and fresh herbs creates a rich and aromatic broth that makes this dish irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this split pea soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 1/2 cups yellow dry split peas, rinsed and picked over (11-12 oz)
• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, or 1/4 tsp dried thyme leaves
• 2 bay leaves
• 5 medium Yukon or red potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into half rings
• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 cups diced ham or ham hock (10 oz)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 8 cups water
• 1 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, divided, added to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Tbsp fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped

Directions:

Prepare the Ham:

1. Set a large soup pot or 5 1/2 qt Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add 1 Tbsp olive oil.
2. Add the diced ham (or ham hock) and sauté until golden brown. Remove ham to a separate plate.

Sauté the Vegetables:

3. Add the remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil to the pot.
4. Sauté the chopped onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Liquids and Peas:

5. Add the chicken stock, water, and drained split peas to the pot.
6. Return the ham to the pot. Bring to a boil and skim off any foam that rises to the top.

Simmer the Soup:

7. Add the thyme and bay leaves, and season with 1/2 tsp salt.
8. Reduce the heat to a simmer, partially cover, and cook for 1 hour 30 minutes or until the peas are almost dissolved.
9. If using a ham hock, remove the bone from the soup, then shred the meat and return it to the pot.

Add Remaining Vegetables:

10. Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the soup.
11. Cook for another 20 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender.

Season and Finish:

12. Season the soup with the remaining salt and pepper to taste.
13. Remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme stems.
14. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh dill or parsley, then immediately turn off the heat.

Serve:

15. Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy bacon and additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes | Kcal: 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

More Information:

This Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham and Vegetables is an ideal dish for those chilly days when you need something warm and nourishing. The split peas provide a great source of protein and fiber, while the ham adds a smoky richness that enhances the overall flavor. The addition of Yukon or red potatoes, carrots, and celery not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a delightful texture to the soup. The fresh dill or parsley gives a vibrant finish that brightens up the entire dish. Easy to prepare and incredibly tasty, this soup is a perfect example of comfort food at its best.

Conclusion:

Enjoy the wonderful taste and health benefits of this Split Pea Soup with Ham and Vegetables. Its rich, savory broth and hearty ingredients make it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this soup is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and comforting qualities. Serve it hot, garnished with crispy bacon and fresh herbs, for a truly satisfying experience. Try this recipe today and discover why this split pea soup has been a beloved family tradition for generations.