Description
Split pea soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and nourishing. This creamy, vibrant green soup is bursting with earthy flavors and smoky undertones from ham, enveloping you in cozy nostalgia. Easy to prepare and made with simple ingredients, this classic recipe not only warms your body but also your heart, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
- 1 ham hock
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prep the Vegetables: Wash and chop carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- 3. Add Split Peas and Ham: Stir in rinsed split peas and ham hock; coat with aromatics for one minute.
- 4. Pour in Broth: Add enough broth or water to cover ingredients by an inch.
- 5. Season and Simmer: Add bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes until peas are tender.
- 6. Finish Up: Remove the ham hock; shred any meat back into the soup if desired. Blend lightly for a creamier texture or leave chunky.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider swapping out carrots for parsnips or adding herbs like thyme. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days; reheat on the stove or microwave.