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Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe

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This hearty and comforting split pea soup is made with tender split peas, smoky ham (optional), and simple vegetables. Perfect for chilly days, this soup is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
  • 1 lb (450g) dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
  • 6 cups (1.5L) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1–2 cups (240–480ml) water (as needed)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 ham bone, ham hock, or 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional for smoky flavor)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
  1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using), and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the Split Peas and Liquid:
  1. Add the rinsed split peas, broth, water, bay leaf, and ham bone or hock (if using).
  2. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer the Soup:
  1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Cook until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Add more water or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
4. Adjust Seasoning:
  1. Remove the bay leaf and ham bone. If using a ham bone, shred any remaining meat and stir it back into the soup.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked salt for flavor.
  • Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic style.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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