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Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone

Close-up of a white bowl filled with thick, green pea soup topped with chunks of ham and diced carrots.
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Make this hearty, thick, and creamy split pea soup using a ham bone for deep, savory flavor. This recipe is simple to follow and creates comforting food perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large ham bone with meat attached
  • 1 pound dried split green peas, rinsed
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cups chopped carrots
  • 2 cups chopped celery
  • 8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the dried split peas under cold water in a colander until the water runs clear. Discard any small stones or debris.
  2. Place the rinsed peas, ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, water or broth, bay leaves, thyme, and pepper into a large pot or Dutch oven.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are completely tender and have broken down, thickening the soup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Remove the ham bone and bay leaves. Shred any usable meat from the bone and return the meat to the pot. Discard the bone.
  6. Taste the soup and add salt as needed. Remember that ham bones add saltiness, so season carefully at the end.
  7. Serve hot. This soup thickens considerably as it cools.

Notes

  • For a quicker cooking time, you can use an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
  • If you do not have a ham bone, substitute with 1 cup of diced smoked ham and 8 cups of vegetable broth. Add the diced ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend a portion of the soup before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenican.com/classic-split-pea-soup-recipe-pea-soup/