Split Pea Soup Recipe

Split peas: These are dried peas that have been peeled and split in half, making them quicker to cook and perfect for soups.

Ham bone: Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the soup. If you don't have a ham bone, diced ham can be used as a substitute.

Onion: Provides a base flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.

Garlic: Adds a depth of flavor and a slight pungency to the soup.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and a bit of texture to the soup.

Celery: Adds a subtle flavor and crunch to the soup.

Bay leaf: Adds a layer of complexity and a subtle herbal note to the soup.

Thyme: A dried herb that adds a warm, earthy flavor to the soup.

Chicken broth: The liquid base of the soup, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

To enhance the flavor of your split pea soup, consider sautéing the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the pot. This step caramelizes the vegetables, adding a deeper, richer taste to the soup.

• split peas - Substitute with lentils: Lentils cook faster and have a similar texture, making them a good alternative for split peas.

• ham bone - Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey leg provides a similar smoky flavor and meaty texture as a ham bone.

• diced ham - Substitute with bacon: Bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor that complements the soup well.

• chopped onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can enhance the soup's taste.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch to provide a similar garlicky flavor.

• chopped carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a sweet, earthy flavor that works well in soups.

• chopped celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel adds a slightly sweet and anise-like flavor, which can be a nice twist in the soup.

• bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can provide a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor.

• dried thyme - Substitute with oregano: Oregano has a robust flavor that can stand in for thyme in soups.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version of the soup.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor to the soup.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and a different depth of flavor.

• Allow the split pea soup to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the soup.
• Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. For easy portioning, consider using individual serving-sized containers.
• Label the containers with the date of preparation. This ensures you keep track of freshness and consume the soup within a safe timeframe.
• Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the soup within 3-4 days. The cool environment will keep the vegetables and ham fresh.
• For longer storage, place the containers in the freezer. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its hearty flavor.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps preserve the soup's consistency.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the soup in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until the soup is hot throughout.
• If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, discard the soup. This is a sign that it may no longer be safe to eat.
• Enjoy your split pea soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

• For stovetop reheating:

  1. Pour the leftover split pea soup into a saucepan.
  2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
  4. Once the soup is heated through, taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

• For microwave reheating:

  1. Transfer the split pea soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  3. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. If the soup is not hot enough, continue heating in 1-minute intervals, stirring each time, until it reaches the desired temperature.

• For oven reheating:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Pour the split pea soup into an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat in the oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until the soup is heated through.
  5. Stir halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.

• For slow cooker reheating:

  1. Transfer the split pea soup to your slow cooker.
  2. Set the slow cooker to low and heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  3. If the soup is too thick, add a bit of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
  4. Once heated through, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

• Large pot: A deep and spacious pot to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for even cooking.

• Colander: Useful for rinsing the split peas under cold water to remove any debris or dirt.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping the vegetables and ham.

• Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and ham.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup occasionally as it simmers.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the split peas and chicken broth.

• Measuring spoons: Used for measuring the dried thyme and other seasonings.

• Ladle: Handy for serving the soup once it's ready.

• Tongs: Useful for removing the ham bone from the pot.

• Bowl: To hold the chopped ham after removing it from the bone.

• Garlic press: Convenient for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and celery the night before and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic instead of mincing it yourself.

Instant pot method: Use an Instant Pot to cook the soup in a fraction of the time. Set it to high pressure for 15 minutes.

Pre-soak split peas: Soak the split peas overnight to reduce cooking time.

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