Split Pea Soup Recipe With Ham: Slow-Simmered Rustic Comfort

There’s something timeless about the rich, earthy aroma of simmering split peas and smoky ham filling the kitchen.

This recipe delivers hearty, rustic comfort with a slow-simmered method that coaxes out deep, savory flavors from simple ingredients.

Ingredients for Split Pea Soup Recipe with Ham

Simple ingredients transform into rustic comfort in this slow-simmered classic.

The ham hock is essential for authentic flavor. Look for a meaty hock—about 1 lb—at your butcher or well-stocked grocery store. Whole Foods or Costco often carry quality options. Avoid pre-cooked ham; the bone and connective tissue in a hock add depth. Split peas should be bright green and uniform in size, with no signs of moisture or off odors.

No ham hock? Smoked turkey neck or thick-cut bacon work well. Vegetarian? Use liquid smoke and mushrooms for a similar depth. Dried thyme can replace fresh at one-third the amount. The broth can be vegetable instead of chicken, but the flavor profile will be lighter. Frozen peas aren’t suitable here—stick with dried.

This soup tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed. The peas will thicken as it sits.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Split Pea Soup With Ham

This method delivers rich, hearty flavor with minimal hands-on time and maximum comfort.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion, carrots, and celery stalks. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

This base layer develops the soup’s depth of flavor. Add the minced 3 cloves garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic—it should release its aroma without turning golden brown.

Step 2: Add Peas, Ham, and Herbs

Stir in the 1 lb dried green split peas, ensuring they are well coated in the aromatic mixture. Add the 1 lb smoked ham hock, 2 pieces bay leaf, 3 pieces fresh thyme sprigs, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Pour in the 6 cups chicken broth and stir to combine.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. The peas will begin to soften and absorb the smoky, savory flavors of the ham and herbs as they cook.

Step 3: Simmer Until Peas Break Down

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The peas should become very tender, breaking down naturally to create a thick, creamy texture. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of water or additional broth to reach your desired consistency.

Check the smoked ham hock—once the meat is falling off the bone, remove it from the pot. Shred the meat, discarding any bones or excess fat, and return the shredded ham to the soup for added richness.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. The smoked ham hock provides a salty depth, so you may not need additional salt. If using low-sodium chicken broth, you might need to add a pinch more to balance the flavors.

Remove the bay leaf and fresh thyme sprigs before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls while hot, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of the tender, smoky ham. This soup is best enjoyed fresh but tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Health Benefits of This split pea soup recipe with ham

Protein Power 💪

This hearty split pea soup recipe with ham is a protein powerhouse. The combination of dried peas and ham delivers a hefty dose of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. A single serving can provide over 20 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for post-workout recovery or a satisfying meal to keep you full for hours.

Rich in Fiber 🥗

Split peas are loaded with dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. The fiber in this soup promotes a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management. Plus, it’s a great way to meet your daily fiber needs without much effort.

With around 16 grams of fiber per cup of split peas, this dish is a fantastic addition to a balanced diet.

Packed with Vitamins and Minerals 🍎

This comforting soup is a treasure trove of essential nutrients. Split peas are rich in iron, potassium, and magnesium, while the ham adds valuable B vitamins, including B12. These nutrients play key roles in energy production, immune function, and overall well-being.

It’s a delicious way to nourish your body while enjoying a warm, savory meal.

Heart-Healthy Choice ❤️

The low saturated fat content and high fiber in this soup make it a heart-smart option. Fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, while the potassium in split peas supports healthy blood pressure. Together, these benefits contribute to a happier, healthier heart.