A Classic and Hearty Split Pea Soup for Cozy Meals
This Country-Style Split Pea Soup is a rustic and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender split peas, hearty vegetables, and flavorful ham, this soup is a meal. Combining onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes creates a satisfying base, while bay leaves and garlic infuse the soup with depth and warmth.
Simmered low and slow, the split peas become velvety and rich, thickening the soup to a perfect consistency. This recipe is ideal for making ahead as the flavors deepen with time. It’s a nourishing and timeless dish that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Country-Style Split Pea Soup
Country-Style Split Pea Soup FAQ
Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes, yellow split peas also work and add a slightly different flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Omit the ham and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Split pea soup freezes beautifully and can be reheated for a quick and hearty meal.
Food History
Split pea soup has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, originating from ancient Roman cuisine. Over time, it became popular in various cultures, particularly in Europe and North America, due to its affordability and ease of preparation.
This country-style version embraces a rustic approach, using simple, wholesome ingredients like split peas, potatoes, and carrots. The addition of ham reflects its roots in farmhouse cooking, where leftover ham and bones were often used to add flavor and richness to soups.
Timeline
- Ancient Rome: Split pea soup becomes a dietary staple.
- 19th century: The dish gains popularity in the United States as an affordable meal.
- Mid-20th century: Country-style recipes like this one emerge, combining split peas with vegetables and ham.
Recipe Discussion
This recipe begins with sautéing onions and garlic in oil to develop a savory base. Split peas, bay leaves, and chicken stock are added, allowing the soup to simmer until the peas break down and create a thick, creamy texture.
Vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes are added during the last stage of cooking to maintain their shape and texture. Finally, diced ham is stirred in, infusing the soup with smoky, savory flavors. Each spoonful is packed with hearty ingredients, making it both filling and delicious.
Preparation Tips
- Rinse Split Peas: Always rinse split peas thoroughly to remove any debris or impurities.
- Sauté for Flavor: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the liquid enhances the soup’s flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking Vegetables: Add the vegetables toward the end to keep them tender but not mushy.
- Ham Options: Use diced ham, ham hocks, or leftover ham bone for added flavor.
- Reheating: Add a splash of water or stock when reheating, as the soup may thicken as it cools.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Soup Pot: A large pot is essential for slow-simmering soups like this.
- Immersion Blender: Ideal if you prefer a smoother consistency for your soup.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: Perfect for rinsing split peas.
- Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
- Storage Containers: Perfect for freezing leftovers for future meals.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm, crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Top with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of parsley for garnish.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy touch.
- Complement the soup with a side of sharp cheddar cheese for a hearty pairing.
A Rustic and Flavorful Classic
This Country-Style Split Pea Soup is a hearty, wholesome recipe perfect for cozy evenings. The combination of split peas, vegetables, and ham creates a deliciously satisfying dish that’s easy to make and always a hit. Whether served as a main course or as part of a larger meal, this soup will surely become a family favorite.
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Country-Style Split Pea Soup Recipe
Country-Style Split Pea Soup
A rustic split pea soup made with green split peas, hearty vegetables, and flavorful ham, simmered to perfection for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup green split peas
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup carrots, sliced thin
- 1 cup celery, sliced thin
- 1 cup diced ham
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add chicken stock, split peas, bay leaf, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, until the peas are tender.
- Add the potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in diced ham and heat through. Serve hot and enjoy.
Laura
Saturday 7th of December 2024
How many servings would this be if it were the main dish?
Vintage Recipes
Sunday 8th of December 2024
4-6 servings. 4 for larger portion and 6 if you stretch it with smaller servings.
Chaim
Sunday 31st of October 2021
What would you say would be the yield for this?
Vintage Recipe Project
Monday 1st of November 2021
A guess would be 2-3 if the main dish.