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Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone

Close-up of a thick, yellow-green pea soup topped with diced ham and bright orange carrots in a white bowl.
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This classic split pea soup recipe yields a thick, hearty, and comforting meal perfect for cozy dinners. We use a ham bone for deep flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed
  • 1 large ham bone (with meat attached)
  • 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste after cooking)

Instructions

  1. Place the rinsed split peas, ham bone, water or broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and pepper into a large stockpot.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it simmer.
  4. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the peas are very tender and have broken down, thickening the soup.
  5. Remove the ham bone. Shred any usable meat from the bone and return it to the pot. Discard the bone and bay leaf.
  6. Taste the soup and add salt as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Serve this hearty soup hot.

Notes

  • For a quicker version, use an Instant Pot: Combine all ingredients (use 6 cups liquid) and cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a Natural Pressure Release for 15 minutes before venting.
  • This soup freezes well for future comfort food meals.
  • If you do not have a ham bone, substitute with 1 cup of diced smoked ham and 6 cups of vegetable broth, omitting the initial salt until tasting.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/classic-pea-soup-recipe-with-ham-bone/