What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade split pea soup is cozy, comforting, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for chilly days. You’ll love how easy it is to throw together, even on busy weeknights. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like tender split peas, hearty vegetables, and savory herbs. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, using pantry staples you probably already have. And the best part? It tastes even better the next day, making leftovers a treat.
Recipe
Homemade split pea soup is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Made with simple ingredients, this soup is both nutritious and flavorful, offering a rich, earthy taste that is satisfying and warming.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried split peas
- 8 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ham hock or 1 cup diced ham (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Rinse the split peas under cold water and drain.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the split peas, water or broth, ham hock or diced ham (if using), bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Remove the ham hock (if used), shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaves.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth.
- The soup thickens as it cools; add more water or broth if needed when reheating.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6 to 8 servings
Nutrition
Split pea soup is a hearty and nutritious dish packed with essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe provides a balanced mix of macronutrients and fiber.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 10g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my split pea soup with something crunchy, so a slice of warm, crusty bread is my go-to. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a simple side salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness. Both options make the meal feel complete and extra satisfying.
Crusty Bread Options
There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup, especially when it’s paired with a slice of crusty bread. I love how a golden baguette, crispy on the outside and soft inside, soaks up the soup’s rich flavors. Sourdough is another favorite—its tangy taste balances the soup’s earthiness perfectly. Sometimes, I’ll toast a slice of rustic whole grain bread for extra texture and nuttiness. If I’m feeling indulgent, I spread a bit of butter or garlic herb compound butter on warm bread. Trust me, it’s a game-changer. Crusty bread truly completes the cozy meal.
Side Salad Ideas
When I’m enjoying a bowl of split pea soup, I love pairing it with a fresh side salad to balance the rich, hearty flavors. A simple mixed greens salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette works wonders. Sometimes, I’ll add a handful of shredded carrots or thin slices of radish for extra crunch. If I’m feeling fancy, a Caesar salad with crisp romaine and a sprinkle of Parmesan is a winner. For something different, I’ll toss together spinach, strawberries, and toasted almonds with a light balsamic dressing. These salads always make the meal feel complete and satisfying!
