Split Pea Soup

Side

Cuisine Canadian

Tags Soup,Warm

Ingredients 8

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Story behind the dish

There’s something incredibly comforting about a pot of hearty split pea soup bubbling away on the stove, filling the kitchen with warm, fragrant aromas. This dish has a history rooted in rustic traditions, where using what’s on hand—like a modest ham and dried peas—resulted in a nourishing, budget-friendly meal that could feed a family through chilly evenings. Today, it remains a beloved classic that brings people together around a steaming bowl of goodness, perfect for cozy weekends or casual gatherings.

Making this soup is a labor of love, starting with tender, salty ham and softly cooked vegetables, then blending everything into a silky, flavorful puree. The addition of frozen peas brightens the dish with a pop of sweetness, and serving it with crusty bread invites hearty, satisfying bites every time. It’s a simple recipe that rewards patience and care, turning humble ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (16 oz) ham
  • ½ lb (8 oz) dried peas (soaked overnight)
  • 2 chopped onions
  • 2 chopped carrots
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 chopped celery stalk
  • 1 cup (6 oz) frozen peas
  • Bread, for serving

Step-by-step

  1. Place the ham in a very large pot with 8 cups (2 liters) of water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and drain the water—this step helps reduce the saltiness.
  2. Refill the pot with another 8 cups (2 liters) of cold water, bring to a boil again, and add the soaked peas, chopped onions, carrots, bay leaves, and chopped celery.
  3. Lower the heat and simmer gently for about 1½ to 2½ hours, adding more water as needed to keep the ingredients submerged and maintain a steady level.
  4. As the ham becomes tender, you can cut it in half if you like, to ensure it stays covered in liquid. Continue cooking until the ham is soft enough to be shredded easily.
  5. Remove the ham from the pot, peel off the skin, and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces while still warm (wearing rubber gloves can help).
  6. Take out the bay leaves from the soup, add the frozen peas, and simmer for about 1 minute.
  7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of water.
  8. Return the soup to the pot to reheat gently if needed. Add most of the shredded ham back into the soup, keep warm, and prepare to serve.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

  • For an extra smoky flavor, toss in a smoky ham bone or some smoked paprika before blending.
  • Serve this comforting soup with crusty bread and butter for a truly satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing.

Closing thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade split pea soup to warm your hands and heart. Its rich, savory flavors and velvety texture make it a timeless favorite, inviting you to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Whether made on a chilly afternoon or to cozy up a lazy weekend, this humble dish delivers warmth and comfort with every spoonful.