If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome bowl that blends nostalgia with delicious simplicity, Classic Split Pea Soup is your answer. This timeless recipe combines dried green split peas, aromatic vegetables, and savory herbs to create a soup that’s both hearty and rich in flavor. Whether you add a touch of smoky ham or keep things vegetarian, the soup simmers into a creamy, satisfying meal ideal for cozy weeknights, meal prep, and everything in between.

Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Classic Split Pea Soup is delightfully straightforward—each ingredient does its part to build complex flavors and comforting textures. From the earthy backbone of split peas to the fragrant kick of fresh parsley, you’ll find that every element matters in creating that soul-warming bowl.

Olive oil: The foundation for softening vegetables and building a fragrant base.
Onion: Adds gentle sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks down.
Carrots: Give a natural sweetness and a pop of color throughout the soup.
Celery: Sets up a savory, aromatic backbone that perfectly balances the sweetness from the carrots and onion.
Garlic: Brings a robust note of warmth that infuses every spoonful.
Dried thyme: Offers earthiness and traditional savory flavor.
Salt: Essential for drawing out the flavors of all the vegetables and legumes.
Black pepper: Adds a mild bite to round out the seasoning profile.
Dried green split peas: The star of the show, providing creaminess and hearty protein once cooked.
Ham bone or diced ham (optional): Infuses irresistible savory, smoky undertones—totally optional for a stellar vegetarian soup.
Chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid that brings everything together with extra flavor—choose broth based on your preference for vegetarian or traditional style.
Bay leaves: Simmered for subtle complexity and a hint of herbal aroma.
Fresh parsley: Sprinkled at the end for a bright, fresh finishing touch.

How to Make Classic Split Pea Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin your journey by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery, stirring until everything softens and the kitchen starts smelling incredible, about six minutes. This step locks in flavor and forms the perfect base for the hearty Classic Split Pea Soup to come.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a quick sauté, just about a minute, until the garlic releases its aroma and the spices cling to the vegetables, setting up a deep savory backdrop for the rest of the soup.

Step 3: Combine Peas, Broth, and Ham (Optional)

Pour in the rinsed split peas, adding the ham bone or diced ham if you’re using it. Top everything off with chicken or vegetable broth and drop in the bay leaves. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This is where Classic Split Pea Soup really starts to transform—stir occasionally to keep the magic moving.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thick and Creamy

Let the soup bubble gently, uncovered, for 60 to 75 minutes. You’ll notice the split peas softening and breaking down, giving the soup its signature creamy, rustic texture. Keep an eye on the pot and give it a stir now and then to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Finish and Adjust

Once the peas are beautifully tender and the soup looks lush and thick, remove the ham bone and bay leaves. For an even creamier finish, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender, or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel. Taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper brings all the flavors forward.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Your Classic Split Pea Soup is now ready to cozy up any meal!

How to Serve Classic Split Pea Soup

Garnishes

For that final pop of freshness and color, a handful of chopped parsley goes a long way. If you want an extra layer of flavor, try crispy bacon bits, a swirl of olive oil, or even homemade croutons to add a bit of crunch and contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair your Classic Split Pea Soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for the ultimate dipping experience. A simple green salad tossed with a bright vinaigrette helps balance the richness, while a slice of sharp cheese adds a lovely, savory bite on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic mugs for a warming lunch or present it in shallow bowls topped with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs for a show-stopping dinner starter. For gatherings, stir in a handful of sautéed greens or serve with mini grilled cheese sandwiches for a playful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Split Pea Soup is a dream to make ahead. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen beautifully with time, making every bowl better than the last.

Freezing

For longer storage, ladle the fully cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Classic Split Pea Soup freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep—just thaw overnight in the fridge and you’re back in business.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of broth or water to return it to your ideal consistency, as it thickens naturally when chilled. Microwave reheating also works well in a pinch; just stir halfway through and check for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I make Classic Split Pea Soup without ham?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a deeply flavorful vegetarian version. You’ll still get that classic, comforting taste—you won’t miss a thing.

Why are my split peas not softening?

Sometimes old peas or hard water can make split peas stubborn. Always use fresh split peas and, if your water is very hard, opt for filtered or bottled water to speed up the softening process.

How can I make the soup extra creamy?

If you love a silky texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in batches in a standard blender. This thickens and smooths while leaving some pea and veggie bits for body.

Is Classic Split Pea Soup gluten-free?

Yes! The base ingredients in Classic Split Pea Soup are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any broth or ham you use doesn’t contain hidden gluten ingredients if you have dietary concerns.

What are the best toppings for Classic Split Pea Soup?

Classic garnishes include fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, black pepper, or even croutons. Crispy bacon or a spoonful of Greek yogurt can also transform your bowl into something extra special.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Classic Split Pea Soup stands the test of time—it’s hearty, easy, and endlessly soulful. Give this recipe a try soon, and let it become a comforting classic in your own kitchen. I bet you’ll come back for seconds!

Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Classic Split Pea Soup, a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for chilly days. This recipe is a timeless favorite, combining the earthy richness of split peas with savory ham and aromatic vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetable Base:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Soup Base:

1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
1 ham bone or 2 cups diced ham (optional for flavor)
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Saute Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot, add onion, carrots, and celery, cook until softened.
Add Flavors: Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper, cook briefly.
Cook Soup: Add split peas, ham, broth, and bay leaves. Simmer until peas are tender and soup thickens.
Blend (Optional): Remove ham bone and bay leaves, blend part of soup for creamier texture.
Adjust and Serve: Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley before serving.