Pea Soup with Ham

Warm, hearty, and brimming with flavor, this classic Pea Soup with Ham is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Made with tender split peas, smoky diced ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables like onion, carrot, and celery, this soup is as wholesome as it is satisfying. Infused with the earthy flavors of bay leaves and thyme, and slow-simmered to perfection, it achieves a delightful balance of creamy and chunky textures. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe promises a satisfying bowl of goodness in every bite. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal. With just 15 minutes of prep and a simmering cook time, this protein-packed, nutrient-rich soup is a timeless favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups smoked ham, diced
• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced smoked ham to the pot and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Pour in the rinsed and drained split peas, followed by the chicken broth.

Step 6

Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the soup is thickened.

Step 8

Remove and discard the bay leaves from the pot.

Step 9

If desired, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture, leaving some chunks for a rustic feel.

Step 10

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 11

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if using. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2985.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2839.4

Total Fat 58.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 236.1mg	0%
Sodium 11723.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 344.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 127.1g	0%
Total Sugars 66.5g
Protein 238.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 658.5mg	0%
Iron 31.2mg	0%
Potassium 8492.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 18.4%

Protein: 33.3%

Carbs: 48.3%