Split Pea Soup (Classic Hearty Split Pea and Ham Soup)
- Sarah Smith
- Mar 14
- 3 min read
Split Pea Soup is one of the coziest classic comfort soups, made by slowly simmering green split peas with vegetables, herbs, and smoky ham until everything becomes thick, rich, and deeply flavorful. This hearty soup has been a cold-weather favorite for generations because it turns simple pantry ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal that feels both rustic and nourishing.
If you enjoy comforting bowls like Ham and Bean Soup, Beef Barley Soup, or cozy classics like Chicken Noodle Soup, this homemade split pea soup is another timeless recipe that belongs in your soup rotation. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, budget-friendly cooking, and cozy family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This
A classic split pea soup recipe with rich smoky flavor
Thick, hearty split pea and ham soup that’s incredibly satisfying
Budget-friendly ingredients and simple preparation
Perfect cozy soup for fall and winter dinners
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 1 hr 20 minutes Total Time: 1 hr 30 minutes Servings: 6
Nutrition Information
Calories: ~320 per serving
Protein: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 13 g
Sodium: ~820 mg
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced (about 120 g)
2 celery stalks, diced (about 100 g)
1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed (450 g)
6 cups chicken broth (1.4 L)
1 smoked ham bone or 1 cup diced ham (about 150 g)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml, optional for brightness)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Add the onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 3 minutes.
Add the rinsed split peas to the pot.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the ham bone or diced ham.
Stir in thyme, bay leaf, pepper, and salt.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 70–80 minutes, stirring occasionally.
As the peas cook, they will break down and naturally thicken the soup.
Remove the ham bone, shred any meat from it, and return the meat to the soup.
Stir in lemon juice if using and adjust seasoning before serving.
Tips & Variations
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth with smoked paprika.
If you prefer a smoother soup, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
Add diced potatoes for an even heartier split pea soup.
A pinch of smoked paprika deepens the smoky flavor.
This soup thickens as it cools; add broth when reheating if needed.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Split pea soup is excellent for meal prep because the flavor improves over time.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
The soup also freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
FAQ
Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?
No. Unlike many dried beans, split peas cook relatively quickly and do not require soaking.
Why is my split pea soup not thick?
Split peas naturally break down during cooking. If your soup is thin, simply simmer it longer or mash some of the peas to thicken the broth.
Can I make split pea soup without ham?
Yes. A vegetarian split pea soup can be made using vegetable broth and adding smoked paprika for flavor.
Are split peas healthy?
Yes. Split peas are high in fiber and protein, making them a nutritious ingredient for hearty soups.
Final Thoughts
Split Pea Soup is a timeless comfort food that turns humble ingredients into a deeply satisfying bowl of soup. With tender split peas, vegetables, and smoky ham simmered together, it’s the kind of cozy recipe that warms you from the inside out.
If you enjoy hearty soups like this, explore more comforting bowls in the Soups and Stews, where you’ll find dozens of cozy soup recipes perfect for chilly evenings and easy weeknight dinners.
