A cozy comfort bowl packed with bold, smoky flavor, perfect for chilly nights.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Yield:4–6 servings 1x
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ham (diced or shredded; ham hock or leftover ham)
1 ½ cups dried split peas (rinsed and sorted)
6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste (depends on saltiness of ham)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Optional: Bay leaf for extra depth
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until tender.
Stir in minced garlic and diced ham. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Add broth, split peas, thyme, black pepper, and a bay leaf (if using). Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it gently simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once peas are tender and soup is thickened, taste and adjust seasoning. Add more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Ladle into bowls, top with chopped parsley, and serve with crusty bread or a slice of cornbread.
Notes
This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezes well for up to 3 months; just reheat on the stove.
Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach for extra nutrition.