Save A hearty comforting soup packed with smoky flavor from bacon and canned ham is perfect for chilly days. This split pea soup brings together tender legumes and savory meats for a fulfilling meal that warms you from the inside out.
When the weather turns cold I turn to this split pea soup for its cozy texture and deep savory taste. Simple steps and just a few pantry ingredients bring it all together in one comforting pot.
Ingredients
- Bacon: 4 oz (115 g), chopped
- Canned Ham: 1 (12 oz/340 g) can, diced (reserve juices if possible)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Split Peas: 1 lb (450 g) dried, rinsed and sorted
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups (1.4 L), low-sodium
- Water: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Bay Leaf: 1
- Dried Thyme: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: To taste
Instructions
- Cook bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside leaving the fat in the pot.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add onion carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes stirring occasionally until vegetables are softened.
- Add garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add main ingredients:
- Add split peas diced canned ham (with juices if possible) chicken broth water bay leaf thyme and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour stirring occasionally until peas are very tender.
- Purée soup (optional):
- Remove bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup for a creamier texture if desired or leave chunky.
- Adjust seasoning:
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Serve hot garnished with the reserved crispy bacon.
Save My family loves gathering around the table with steaming bowls of this soup especially when the air outside is brisk. It disappears fast whenever I make it for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving this soup with crusty gluten-free bread or simple crackers for a satisfying meal. You can also top each bowl with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a vegetarian version omit the ham and bacon and switch to vegetable broth. Smoked paprika adds delicious depth in place of meat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove adding water or broth as needed to reach the desired consistency.
Save Enjoy this homestyle split pea soup fresh or as leftovers. It is warming satisfying and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a creamy texture?
Partially purée the soup with an immersion blender after cooking for a smoother consistency, or leave it chunky as preferred.
- → Can I substitute fresh ham for canned ham?
Fresh ham can be used, but canned ham adds a distinctive smoky flavor and convenience.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit bacon and ham, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika to maintain a smoky depth.
- → What side dishes pair well with this soup?
Crusty bread or crackers complement the rich flavors and provide a satisfying texture contrast.
- → How should leftovers be handled?
As the soup cools, it thickens; thin with water or broth when reheating for desired consistency.