Description
A hearty and flavorful split pea soup with smoked ham, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped into small pieces
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups diced smoked ham
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Pour in the rinsed split peas along with the chicken stock, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.
- After reaching a boil, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and creamy.
- Stir in the diced smoked ham and let it simmer for another 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Discard the bay leaf and season the soup with salt according to your taste preferences.
- For a smoother consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer some to a traditional blender, then mix it back into the pot.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian twist, skip the ham and substitute with vegetable broth.
- Consider adding diced potatoes for an extra layer of heartiness.
- To brighten the flavors, a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can elevate the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: varies
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg