Save to Pinterest A hearty, comforting soup packed with smoky flavor from bacon and canned ham, perfect for chilly days.
I remember making this split pea soup when I wanted something cozy but easy. The canned ham and bacon make it extra smoky and rich, while split peas break down for a creamy finish—it's always a hit on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Bacon: 4 oz (115 g), chopped
- Canned ham: 1 (12 oz/340 g) can, diced (reserve juices if possible)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery stalks: 2, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Dried split peas: 1 lb (450 g), rinsed and sorted
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 6 cups (1.4 L)
- Water: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Bay leaf: 1
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: to taste
Instructions
- Cook Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 – 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Main Ingredients:
- Add split peas, diced canned ham (plus juices if possible), chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until peas are very tender.
- Finish Texture:
- Remove bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup for a creamier texture, if desired, or leave chunky.
- Season:
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon.
Save to Pinterest This soup brings back memories of family meals where we gathered around the table, warmed by each spoonful. My kids especially love the smoky crunch from the bacon bits on top!
Serving Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple green salad. For extra freshness, sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 350 calories, 11 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 23 g protein.
Allergen Notes
This soup contains pork and celery. Gluten-free if you choose certified ingredients for canned ham and broth.
Save to Pinterest This soup is simple to make and freeze for later. A steaming bowl is perfect for chilly evenings and brings everyone together at the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh ham instead of canned ham?
Yes, fresh ham can be substituted; adjust cooking time to ensure it becomes tender within the simmering process.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the bacon and ham, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika to maintain a smoky flavor profile.
- → What is the purpose of partially blending the dish?
Blending partially creates a creamier texture while still retaining some chunky vegetable and legume pieces for added mouthfeel.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, flavors deepen when stored overnight. Reheat gently, thinning with water or broth as needed due to thickening.
- → What side dishes pair well with this hearty split pea dish?
Crusty bread or crackers complement the rich, smoky flavors while providing a pleasant textural contrast.