If you’re craving a hearty, comforting bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’re going to love this Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe. With its earthy green split peas, savory ham flavor, and the perfect blend of aromatic vegetables and herbs, this soup strikes a wonderful balance between simplicity and richness. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell irresistible while delivering a satisfying meal everyone will praise. Whether you’re new to making pea soup or looking for a trusted version to become your go-to, this Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe ticks all the boxes and feels like a timeless classic in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is where the magic of this soup begins. Each component is straightforward and plays a unique role, building layers of taste and texture that make the Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe so memorable. From the hearty split peas to the punch of garlic and the smoky depth of ham, these essentials form the backbone of this dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a gentle richness and helps soften the vegetables for a mellow base.
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced): Provides a subtly sweet and savory flavor as the soup’s aromatic foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant depth and enhances the overall savory profile.
- 3 medium carrots (peeled and chopped): Bring a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the pot.
- 2 celery stalks (chopped): Offer a mild, refreshing crunch that balances the softness of the peas.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the soup with an earthy, herbal note that warms the palate.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle aromatic complexity that gently rounds out the flavors during simmering.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the full flavor of every ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild heat and sharpness that livens the soup.
- 1 1/2 cups dried green split peas (rinsed): The star ingredient that thickens the soup with wholesome goodness and a comforting texture.
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base that melds all the soup elements together.
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional): Introduces a smoky, savory depth for those who want a bit of meaty richness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness): Adds a fresh, zesty lift that balances the earthy flavors perfectly.
How to Make Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and cook it gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. This step is crucial as it lays down a savory, slightly sweet foundation for your soup. Next, toss in the minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Keep cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables have released their fragrant aromas and softened just enough to blend seamlessly into the soup.
Step 2: Season and Combine Ingredients
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, carefully add the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper, then stir everything together. These spices start layering their magic now, complementing the vegetables and prepping the broth for a full-bodied taste. It’s this straightforward seasoning that makes the Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe so balanced and inviting.
Step 3: Add Peas, Broth, and Ham
Pour in the rinsed split peas and broth, then nestle in the smoked ham hock or diced ham if you’re going for the traditional meaty flavor. Bring the entire pot to a boil to kick-start the cooking process. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60 to 75 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the peas break down, thickening the soup into a luscious consistency.
Step 4: Finish and Adjust
When the peas are tender and the soup beautifully thickened, remove the bay leaf and discard it along with the ham hock, if you used one. For added flavor, shred any meat from the ham hock and stir it back into the pot. If you prefer a smoother texture, an immersion blender can be used to partially blend the soup to your liking. Finally, stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the overall flavor. Taste and tweak your seasoning—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper is all it takes to make this Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe truly sing.
How to Serve Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your soup is a wonderful opportunity to elevate it with a pop of color and extra texture. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives for a touch of herbal freshness. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a cooling contrast to the soup’s earthy flavors. For a little crunch, crisped bacon bits or toasted croutons work beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup shines as a main dish but pairs delightfully with rustic bread like crusty sourdough or garlic toast to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast, balancing the soup’s richness. If you want to keep things cozy, buttery corn muffins make for a sweet and satisfying accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an inviting rustic feel. You can also top soup bowls with thinly sliced radishes or a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil for an elegant finish. If hosting a gathering, ladle this Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe into small cups or shot glasses as a unique appetizer that sparks conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 4 days. Just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened during storage, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back to your preferred consistency. Using a low heat prevents scorching and keeps your soup perfectly smooth and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham or ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The vegetables and herbs still create a deeply satisfying, flavorful soup without the meat.
Why does my split pea soup get too thick?
Split peas naturally thicken soup as they break down during cooking and cooling. If your soup gets too thick, just stir in a bit of water or broth when reheating to adjust the consistency.
Is it necessary to soak split peas before cooking?
No soaking is required for split peas, which is one reason this Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe is so convenient. They cook relatively quickly and soften nicely straight from rinsing.
Can I use yellow split peas for this recipe?
You can, though green split peas offer a slightly earthier flavor that’s classic for this soup. Yellow split peas will yield a similar texture but a milder taste.
How long does it take to cook this soup?
The total cooking time is about 60 to 75 minutes of simmering after sautéing the vegetables. This allows the peas to fully soften and the flavors to meld beautifully for that perfect Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe experience.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe is pure kitchen comfort in a bowl, a timeless dish that feels like homemade love with every spoonful. It’s the type of soup that never goes out of style, simple enough for a weekday meal yet special enough to share with friends and family. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your recipe collection, warming hearts and filling bellies season after season.
Print
Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Classic Split Pea Soup is a hearty and comforting recipe featuring tender green split peas simmered with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and optional smoked ham for extra flavor. Perfect for a nutritious, filling meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop. The soup can be blended for a smoother texture and brightened with a splash of lemon juice.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
Optional Ingredients
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, for brightness
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Vegetables and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, peeled and chopped carrots, and chopped celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Add Main Ingredients: Pour in the rinsed split peas and the 6 cups of low-sodium broth. If using, add the smoked ham hock or diced cooked ham for extra smoky flavor.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 60 to 75 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Finish the Soup: Remove the bay leaf and ham hock from the pot. If using a ham hock, shred any meat from the bone and return it to the soup. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup to your desired texture.
- Add Brightness and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the optional lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- This soup tends to thicken as it cools; thin it with additional water or broth when reheating.
- The soup freezes well for up to 3 months, making it ideal for meal prep.
