Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm bowl of Split Pea & Ham Soup. Not only is this classic, hearty dish packed with tender split peas and savory diced ham, but it also comes together easily in just one pot. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or using up leftover ham from a holiday meal, this soup is always a great choice.
First, you’ll sauté onions, carrots, and celery to create a deep, savory base. Then, you’ll add garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, which enhance the overall flavor. After that, everything simmers together until the split peas turn thick and creamy, making each spoonful incredibly satisfying. Even better, it requires very little hands-on time, so you can sit back while it cooks to perfection.
What makes this soup even more amazing? As it rests, the flavors meld, creating an even richer taste the next day. So, if you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Split Pea & Ham Soup is exactly what you need!
Recipe Yield: 6-8 servings
INGREDIENTS
1 lb dried split peas, rinsed
7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 ½ cups diced smoked ham
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups water
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)
Salt, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the soup: Add split peas, diced ham, chicken broth, water, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender.
4. Adjust seasoning and texture: Stir in apple cider vinegar for brightness. Taste and add salt if needed. For a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for 10 more minutes. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
5. Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or cornbread on the side!
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use Smoked Ham for Depth – Opt for smoked diced ham for a more robust flavor since there’s no ham bone in this version.
- Let It Rest for Better Flavor – The soup thickens and develops even more richness after sitting. Add broth when reheating if needed.
- Balance the Flavor with Acidity – A small splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end enhances the overall taste.
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