Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham
This easy, creamy Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food! Made with simple ingredients like dried peas, carrots, and a smoky ham hock, it's a healthy, hearty, and budget friendly meal that simmers to perfection on your stovetop.
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz bag dried green split peas
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 2 large carrots chopped
- 8 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 large or 2 small smoked ham hock, or 8 oz diced cooked ham
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse split peas in a colander under cold water. Drain.
- In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 4-5 mins until soft. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add rinsed peas, carrots, ham hock (or diced ham), and broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low to maintain a simmer. Cover partially and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until peas are very soft and soup is thick.
- Remove ham hock. Once cool, shred meat from bone, discard skin/bone, and return meat to soup.
- Season soup generously with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
- No Soaking: Split peas do not require pre soaking.
- Consistency: Soup thickens as it cools. Add hot water or broth when reheating to reach desired thickness.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit ham, use vegetable broth, and add ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional) for depth.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.