Split Pea and Ham Soup (Printable Version)

A rich, comforting classic made with ham bone, tender vegetables, and hearty split peas that transforms leftovers into pure comfort.

# What You'll Need:

→ Soup Base

01 - 16 oz dried split peas, rinsed, drained, and checked for debris
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
04 - 3 stalks celery, diced
05 - 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 ½ pounds meaty ham bone
08 - 4 cups chicken broth
09 - 2 cups water
10 - 1 bay leaf
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - ½ teaspoon dried thyme

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a Dutch oven or large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender.
02 - Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
03 - Add the ham bone and split peas to the pot.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and water. Add bay leaf, salt, pepper, and thyme.
05 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 50–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are soft.
06 - Remove the ham bone. Pull off any meat, shred it, and return it to the soup.
07 - Continue cooking uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the soup thickens and peas have broken down.
08 - Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Serve hot.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Makes brilliant use of leftover ham bone that might otherwise be discarded
  • Comes together in one pot for easy cleanup
  • Develops incredible depth of flavor with minimal effort
  • Creates 6 hearty servings perfect for meal prep
02 -
  • Naturally gluten free when made with certified broth
  • Provides complete protein when paired with whole grain bread
  • Freezes beautifully for quick future meals
03 -
  • Allow split peas to simmer until completely broken down for the creamiest texture without using any dairy
  • Avoid adding salt until tasting at the end, as ham bones vary greatly in saltiness
  • Let soup rest for 10 minutes off heat before serving to allow flavors to settle and meld together

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