Split Pea and Ham Soup
A hearty, smoky, and deeply comforting soup made with tender split peas and a savory ham hock. This classic, budget-friendly meal is perfect for a chilly day, slow-simmered to perfection.
For 6 servings
8 steps. 90 minutes total.
- 1
Thoroughly rinse the dried split peas under cold running water
- a.Carefully pick through them to remove any small stones or debris.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat
- a.Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add the rinsed split peas, the smoked ham hock, chicken broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.
- 5
Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil
- a.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 75-90 minutes. Stir every 15-20 minutes to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom. The soup is ready when the peas are very tender and have started to break down, creating a creamy consistency.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot and place it on a cutting board to cool slightly. Once it's cool enough to handle, use two forks or your fingers to shred the meat from the bone. Discard the bone, skin, and any large pieces of fat.
- 7
Return the shredded ham to the soup
- a.Remove and discard the bay leaves. Stir well and taste the soup *before* adding any salt. The ham hock will have added a significant amount of salt. Season with salt as needed.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a smoother, creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend it before returning the shredded ham.
- 2Do not add salt until the very end of cooking. The ham hock releases a lot of salt as it simmers, and adding salt too early can prevent the peas from softening.
- 3The soup thickens considerably as it cools. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- 4There's no need to soak split peas overnight, but a thorough rinse is essential to remove any dust or debris.
- 5This soup freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
Omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. For extra protein, stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas at the end.
Spicy VersionSpicy Version
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a gentle, warming heat.
Slow Cooker MethodSlow Cooker Method
Sauté the vegetables as directed on the stovetop, then transfer all ingredients (except salt and parsley) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Remove and shred the ham hock before seasoning and serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Split peas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
This soup provides a significant amount of protein from the split peas, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Source of Essential Minerals
Contains important minerals like iron, which is vital for oxygen transport in the blood, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
Heart-Healthy
The high fiber content can help lower cholesterol levels. Using low-sodium broth and lean ham contributes to a soup that is beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's quite healthy. It's packed with fiber and protein from the split peas, which aids digestion and keeps you full. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Using a low-sodium broth and trimming excess fat from the ham helps control sodium and fat content.