Cozy Split Pea Soup Recipe
Growing up, there was something undeniably comforting about the aroma of split pea soup wafting through our home on chilly days. It was a cherished family recipe that warmed our hearts and filled our bellies. The vibrant green of the split peas, the golden glow of sautéed veggies, and the tender bits of ham created a symphony of flavors that transported us to a cozy haven. There’s just something about a bowl of creamy soup that feels like a hug from the inside out, right? Whether you’re seeking an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to ward off the winter chill, this split pea soup is sure to become one of your favorites too.
This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and fiber, this split pea soup nourishes your body while bringing warmth to your soul.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for even the busiest weeknight dinners.
- Comfort in Every Spoonful: The combination of creamy split peas and savory ham offers a deliciously satisfying experience in every bite.
- Customizable: Feel free to personalize this recipe with your favorite herbs or add extra veggies for a boost of flavor and nutrition.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for those days when cooking feels just too daunting.
Gather These Simple Ingredients
To make this delicious split pea soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded ham
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: bay leaf, thyme, or other herbs
Let’s Make It Together
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the heartwarming process of crafting this split pea soup.
- Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed split peas, broth, and shredded ham to the pot.
- If using, add bay leaf and thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender and creamy.
- Remove the bay leaf, if used, and discard.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency; blend until creamy or leave some chunks for texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot in your favorite bowls, and enjoy the delightful warmth!
Fun Ways to Customize It
While the classic split pea soup is a comforting staple, there are plenty of fun ways to put your twist on it:
- Herb Medley: Try adding fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the soup.
- Zesty Coconut: Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for a creamy and slightly sweet undertone.
- Smoky Flavor: For a hint of smokiness, you could substitute the ham with smoked turkey or even add some smoked paprika.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some finely chopped spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
- Ingredient Swaps: You can use any broth you have on hand (vegetable or chicken). Even water can work in a pinch, but the soup will have a milder flavor.
- Slicing Tricks: When chopping veggies, try to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg (can be adjusted based on broth used)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep and is even more delicious when stored and reheated.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap out vegetables or proteins as you desire, like adding turkey bacon for a twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
How long does it last?
When properly stored, this split pea soup can last in the fridge for about 4 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months.
A Cozy Closing Note
There’s something deeply nourishing about a warm bowl of split pea soup, whether it’s a chilly evening or just a cozy moment you’re seeking. This delightful recipe not only brings back fond memories but also nourishes the soul—a bowl that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Save this Split Pea Soup to your cozy recipe board so it’s ready when you need a warm hug in a bowl!
Happy cooking and happy eating!
Cozy Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 105 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting split pea soup packed with protein and fiber, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded ham
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: bay leaf, thyme, or other herbs
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed split peas, broth, and shredded ham to the pot.
- If using, add bay leaf and thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender and creamy.
- Remove the bay leaf, if used, and discard.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency; blend until creamy or leave some chunks for texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot in your favorite bowls, and enjoy the delightful warmth!
Notes
This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
