Split Pea Soup Recipe

Split peas: Dried legumes that become creamy when cooked, forming the base of the soup.

Ham bone: Provides a rich, smoky flavor and depth to the soup.

Onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth to the soup.

Carrots: Contribute a subtle sweetness and color.

Celery: Offers a mild, earthy flavor and adds texture.

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its pungent aroma.

Chicken broth: Serves as the liquid base, adding savory richness.

Thyme: A dried herb that adds a subtle earthy flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.

When preparing split peas, ensure they are thoroughly rinsed under cold water to remove any dust or debris. This step is crucial for achieving a clean and smooth soup. Additionally, when using a ham bone or ham hock, allow it to simmer with the peas and vegetables for the full 1.5 hours. This slow cooking process extracts maximum flavor, enriching the broth and enhancing the overall taste of the soup. After removing the ham bone, be sure to chop any remaining meat and return it to the pot, as this adds a delightful texture and depth to the dish.

• dried split peas - Substitute with green lentils: Green lentils have a similar texture and earthy flavor, making them a good alternative for split peas.

• ham bone or ham hock - Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey legs provide a similar smoky flavor and richness to the soup.

• large onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a milder onion flavor and can add a subtle sweetness to the soup.

• medium carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a sweet and slightly nutty flavor, which can complement the other ingredients well.

• stalks celery - Substitute with fennel stalks: Fennel stalks provide a similar crunch and a slight anise flavor, adding depth to the soup.

• cloves garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild garlic flavor and can add a hint of sweetness to the dish.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version, maintaining the soup's savory base.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano offers a similar herbal note and can enhance the soup's flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory depth and umami flavor, reducing the need for additional salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and can blend more seamlessly into the soup without altering its appearance.

• Allow the split pea soup to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the soup.

• Transfer the soup into airtight containers. For easy portioning, consider using individual serving-sized containers.

• If you plan to enjoy the soup within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, freeze the soup. Ensure there's some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes.

• Label the containers with the date of storage. This will help you keep track of freshness and avoid any mystery meals lurking in the freezer.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing helps preserve the soup's quality.

• Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed after reheating. Sometimes the flavors can mellow during storage, so a pinch of salt or pepper might be necessary.

• Enjoy your split pea soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

• Gently reheat the split pea soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

• Use the microwave for a quick reheat. Place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals. Stir between intervals until the soup reaches your desired temperature.

• For a creamy twist, reheat the soup on the stovetop and stir in a splash of cream or milk as it warms. This adds a rich texture and enhances the flavor profile.

• If you have a slow cooker, set it to low and let the soup warm gradually. This method is perfect for maintaining the soup's texture and flavor, especially if you're not in a rush.

• For an oven method, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Large pot: A large pot is essential for combining and cooking all the ingredients together. It should be big enough to hold the soup as it simmers and allows for easy stirring.

• Colander: A colander is used to rinse the split peas under cold water, ensuring they are clean and free from any debris before cooking.

• Chopping board: A chopping board provides a stable surface for chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and any other ingredients.

• Chef's knife: A chef's knife is necessary for chopping the vegetables and mincing the garlic efficiently.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure out the thyme, salt, and pepper for seasoning the soup.

• Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the soup once it’s ready, allowing you to scoop and portion it easily.

• Tongs: Tongs can be handy for removing the ham bone from the soup before chopping any meat off it.

• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup as it cooks, ensuring that the ingredients are well combined and that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

Pre-chop vegetables: Prepare the onion, carrots, and celery in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge.

Use pre-made broth: Opt for store-bought chicken broth to save time on making your own.

Quick rinse peas: Rinse split peas in a colander to speed up the cleaning process.

Simmer in a slow cooker: Use a slow cooker to let the soup cook while you attend to other tasks.

Pre-cooked ham: Use pre-cooked ham instead of a ham bone to reduce cooking time.