Split Pea and Ham Soup
- Yield:Serves 6 to 8
- Active time:15 minutes
- Total time:1 hour 15 minutes
[Photograph: J. Kenji López-Alt]
A no-fuss, no-frills version of the classic, made with green split peas, broth, and ham. Even in its simplest form, it's rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful, a perfect hearty meal on a cold day.
Why It Works
A traditional, comforting split pea soup with ham. Read the Whole Story- This classic recipe is no-fuss and no-frills.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 6 ounces; 170g)
- 1 large rib celery, finely diced (about 4 ounces; 125g)
- 6 ounces (170g) ham steak, diced (see note above)
- 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450g) dried green split peas
- 2 quarts (2L) homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken stock, or water
- 2 bay leaves
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
-
1.
Melt butter in a large Dutch oven or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and ham and cook, stirring, until softened but not browned, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook until aromatic, about 30 seconds.
-
2.
Add peas, chicken stock or water, and bay leaves. Stir to combine, bring to a boil, reduce to a bare simmer, and cover, leaving lid slightly ajar. Cook until peas are tender, about 1 hour. Remove ham hock, pick meat, and return to soup (if using). Roughly purée soup using a hand blender, or purée in batches using a countertop blender. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.