It’s a chilly day, and you walk into your kitchen, greeted by the delightful aroma of simmering Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone. The rich, earthy scent wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace and promising comfort with every spoonful. Imagine savoring this velvety soup, each bite bursting with flavor and nostalgia, like a warm hug from your grandma on a winter’s evening.
As the steam rises and dances around the room, memories flood back of family gatherings where this dish was the star. Picture everyone gathered around the table, laughter echoing as they relished each hearty bowl. Whether it’s a snowy Sunday or simply a day that calls for something comforting, this Hearty Split Pea Soup is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is incredibly easy to make, perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Its rich flavors combine smoky ham and creamy peas for an irresistible taste experience.
- The vibrant green color makes it visually appealing in any bowl.
- This soup is versatile enough to be enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish.
Growing up, my family would gather around the dinner table to enjoy this delightful soup on cold evenings. Their smiles were worth every minute spent stirring the pot.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Green Split Peas: These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber; rinse them before use for the best texture.
Ham Bone: A leftover ham bone adds depth; choose one with some meat still attached for flavor.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness; chop them into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Celery: Celery adds crunch and flavor; use fresh stalks for a vibrant taste profile.
Onion: A yellow onion works best here; sauté until translucent to release its natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic goodness; don’t skimp—more is more when it comes to garlic!
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade or store-bought will work well.
Dried Thyme: Dried thyme enhances earthy flavors; feel free to substitute with other herbs if desired.
Bay Leaves: Two bay leaves add subtle depth; remember to remove them before serving.
Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper elevates taste; adjust according to your heat preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
Prepare yourself for an adventure in cooking that will fill your home with warmth and joy.
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add some oil and toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until they become tender and fragrant—about 5 minutes will do!
Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic along with dried thyme and bay leaves. Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic releases its delightful aroma—this step is crucial for building flavor.
Add Split Peas and Ham Bone: Pour in rinsed split peas along with your glorious ham bone. Mix everything together while marveling at how colorful it all looks—green peas against bright orange carrots is quite a sight!
Pour in Broth: Carefully add vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low—let it simmer gently.
Simmer Away: Allow your soup to bubble away on low heat for about 1.5 hours until peas are soft and creamy. Stir occasionally while savoring those tantalizing smells wafting through your kitchen!
Taste Test: Finally, remove that ham bone (don’t forget!) and stir in freshly cracked pepper to taste before serving. You can also blend slightly if you prefer a smoother texture—your call!
Now grab a ladle because you’re about to serve up bowls of happiness! Your Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is ready to be devoured alongside some crusty bread or freshly baked biscuits!
Enjoy this delightful journey of flavors that will surely leave everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- Hearty split pea soup with ham bone is not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
- The vibrant green color and smoky aroma invite you in, making it perfect for cozy evenings or chilly days.
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add the split peas and ham bone. Pour in broth and let it simmer for about an hour. This sequence ensures rich flavors develop beautifully while keeping your kitchen smelling divine.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your hearty split pea soup with ham bone by adding carrots, celery, or even a splash of hot sauce for heat. A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end can elevate the dish, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover soup, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep its creamy texture intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use dried peas for a thicker texture; they absorb more liquid as they cook.
- Soak them overnight if you want to shorten cooking time.
- Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning can take your soup from good to great!
Sharing stories about my mom’s hearty split pea soup always warms my heart. She used to make it every Sunday, filling our home with its delicious aroma that felt like home.
FAQ
Can I use fresh peas instead of dried?
Fresh peas won’t provide the same texture but can be used in a pinch.
How long can I store hearty split pea soup with ham bone?
Store it for up to three days in the refrigerator or freeze for later enjoyment.
What if I don’t have a ham bone?
You can substitute with smoked sausage or add liquid smoke for that delicious flavor.
Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone
Hearty Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This nourishing soup combines tender green split peas and smoky ham, creating a rich, velvety texture that warms your soul. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, each bowl promises a delightful taste of nostalgia. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup green split peas (rinsed)
- 1 ham bone (with some meat attached)
- 2 medium carrots (chopped)
- 2 stalks celery (chopped)
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add oil. Sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until tender (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaves; sauté for an additional minute.
- Add rinsed split peas and the ham bone, mixing well.
- Pour in vegetable broth until all ingredients are submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer.
- Simmer for about 1.5 hours until peas are soft. Remove the ham bone and stir in black pepper to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: For a thicker texture, use dried split peas; soak overnight if desired. Customize by adding extra vegetables or herbs based on your preference.
