Classic split pea soup
Split Pea Soup is undeniably one of the most comforting and hearty soups, especially during the holidays. For instance, after cooking up a delicious Baked Ham for Christmas, I love using the leftover ham in this soup, adding an extra layer of incredible flavor. Aside from its rich taste, split peas also offer fantastic nutritional benefits.
They are low in fat, high in soluble fiber, and packed with protein, as well as essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, iron, and magnesium. It’s a delightful way to sneak in some healthy goodness for your family, all while treating them to a flavorful bowl of soup.
“Embrace the timeless comfort of Classic Split Pea Soup, a hearty bowl that embodies the essence of home-cooked warmth.”
The Story of Classic Split Pea Soup:
Classic Split Pea Soup is a cherished recipe that has graced family tables for generations. This nourishing soup, born from simple ingredients like split peas, vegetables, and ham, is a testament to the heartiness and enduring appeal of traditional comfort food.
Why You Should Make this recipe:
- Soul-Satisfying Comfort: Experience the soul-satisfying comfort of a bowl of split pea soup, where each spoonful carries the warmth of homemade goodness.
- Wholesome Ingredients: The combination of split peas, vegetables, and ham creates a nutritious and filling soup that nourishes both body and spirit.
- Easy and Economical: This recipe’s simplicity and use of affordable ingredients make it an accessible and economical choice for a delicious and filling meal.
How to Serve:
Serving Classic Split Pea Soup is a comforting ritual:
- Ladle It: Ladle the thick and hearty soup into bowls, ensuring a generous portion of split peas, vegetables, and ham in each serving.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness and creaminess.
- Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a side of crackers for a delightful accompaniment.
What Goes Well With this classic split pea soup:
Classic Split Pea Soup pairs wonderfully with complementary accompaniments:
- Crispy Bacon: Crumble crispy bacon on top for an extra layer of savory goodness.
- Carrot Sticks: Enjoy with carrot sticks or a fresh carrot salad to balance the richness of the soup.
- Hot Sauce (Optional): Add a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their soup.
Storage Info:
If there are any leftovers, here’s how to keep the heartiness of Split Pea Soup:
- Cool Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before refrigerating any remaining portions.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.
- Reheat (Optional): Gently reheat individual servings on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and comforting encore.
Tips and Notes:
- Ham Bone: If available, adding a ham bone during cooking enhances the flavor of the soup.
- Thickening: Allow the soup to simmer longer for a thicker consistency or add more broth for a lighter version.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference for a perfectly seasoned bowl.
“Bask in the comforting embrace of Classic Split Pea Soup, where every spoonful is a journey into the heartwarming tradition of home-cooked goodness.”
Classic split pea soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried split peas green or yellow
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 ribs celery chopped
- 2 medium carrots peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth low sodium or no sodium added
- 4 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1½ pound meaty ham bone or ham shanks
Instructions
Soak the Split Peas:
- Rinse the split peas thoroughly and place them in a pot.
- Cover the peas with 2 quarts of cold water and let them soak overnight.
Sauté Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until aromatic.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Pour in chicken broth and water, stirring to combine.
- Add the soaked split peas, bay leaf, dried thyme, and ham bone.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low heat.
- Cover and simmer for about 1½ hours.
Finish the Soup:
- Carefully remove the ham bone from the soup. Cut off the meat and dice it.
- Return the diced ham to the soup.
- Cook on low heat for an additional 30 minutes or until the soup has thickened.
- Discard the bay leaf.
- Serve and enjoy your split pea soup!
Notes
If you opt for regular instead of low-sodium chicken broth, consider reducing the added salt to prevent the soup from becoming overly salty.
The serving size is calculated based on using 4 cups of water.
