Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone

Winter comfort food, like split pea soup with a smoky flavor, is hard to beat. This hearty soup is made with a ham bone, split peas, vegetables, and thyme. It’s the perfect cozy meal to warm you up on a cold day.

This hearty, stick to your ribs Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone was introduced in New England during the 19th Century by French Canadian mill workers. It is a nutritious, hearty and budget-friendly meal.

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make soup, this recipe for split pea soup with ham bone is one I recommend giving a try. This soup is packed with flavor and nutrients and is satisfying even for big appetites.

Why is split pea soup so prevalent in winter?

There are a few reasons why we love split pea soup during cooler months:

1. It’s a hearty and filling soup that can warm you up on a cold day.
2. It’s usually made with a ham bone, which adds a lot of flavor to the soup with a touch of smokiness.
3. It’s a relatively inexpensive dish to make, so you can feed a crowd without spending too much money.
4. It’s is easy to make and can be made ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
5. This hearty soup is popular for potlucks or game nights.

FAQs about split peas

Are split peas good for you?

Yes, split peas are a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins. They can help you feel fuller longer and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

What are the best ways to cook split peas?

There are many ways to cook split peas, but some of the most popular methods include simmering them in water or broth or cooking them in a pressure cooker.

Why use a ham bone to make split pea soup?

Using a ham bone will add flavor to your soup. However, you can also use bacon, ham hocks, or smoked turkey to flavor the soup.

Are split peas healthy?

Yes, split peas are healthy. They are a good source of fiber and protein and contain vitamins and minerals. Split peas can help you regulate your blood sugar levels, and they can also help you maintain a healthy weight.

Are split peas low in carbs?

Let’s compare split peas with other legumes

— 1 cup of cooked split peas has 16 grams of net carbs

— 1 cup of cooked lentils has 24 grams of net carbs

— 1 cup of cooked black beans has 26 grams of net carbs

— 1 cup of cooked kidney beans has 27 grams of net carbs

— 1 cup of cooked pinto beans has 30 grams of net carbs

— 1 cup of cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans) has 33 grams of net carbs

As you can see split peas are the lowest in net carbs. So if you are following a low carb diet you can include split peas in moderation. 

What is a ham bone?

A ham bone is the bone from a ham that has been smoked or cured. It adds flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes.

Add-ins

Many delicious ingredients can be added to split pea soup, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Ham, bacon, or sausage are all excellent choices to add protein and heartiness to the soup. 

For a vegetarian option, tofu or tempeh make great additions. For some crunch, top the soup with croutons or seeds. 

A dollop of yogurt or sour cream also adds a nice touch. And finally, don’t forget the green onions! They add both flavor and color to the dish.

Sides to split pea soup with ham

Split pea soup and bread are a must combination. Some of our favourite sides to the split pea soup are:

Gluten-free crusty bread

Gluten-free chia soda bread

Gluten Free German Potato Bread

STORING

Split pea soup is a classic recipe that is perfect for winter. But how long will it keep?

This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to six months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight, and reheat it on the stove. Add a little water or broth if it’s too thick.

best vegetables to add to split pea soup

If you’re looking to add some extra vegetables to your split pea soup, a few great options will complement the dish’s flavours perfectly. Carrots, celery, and onions are all classic choices that will add a touch of sweetness and crunch to the soup.

Potatoes are another great option, as they’ll help thicken the soup and make it heartier. Try adding some green peas or spinach leaves for a bit of extra colour. And finally, if you want to give the soup a bit of a kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

split peas soup and nostalgia

There’s something about split pea soup with a smoky flavor that screams nostalgia. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s comfort food that reminds us of our childhoods, or perhaps it’s because it’s a hearty, warm meal that is perfect for winter. 

Whatever the reason, we can all agree that split pea soup is a dish that evokes a sense of nostalgia.

So why not take a trip down memory lane and whip up a pot of split pea soup? You’ll be glad you did.

Let’s connect

Meet Kristina. Passionate about creating delicious, innovative gluten free recipes, and author of two gluten free cookbooks, “Entertaining The Gluten Free Way” and “Small Bites The Gluten Free Way”.

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Many thanks!

Kristina x