Split Pea Soup with Ham Hock
A timeless comfort classic, this hearty soup features creamy split peas and a smoky ham hock, slow-simmered with vegetables until tender. It's a thick, satisfying meal in a bowl, perfect for a chilly day.
For 6 servings
8 steps. 90 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Peas: Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold running water in a fine-mesh sieve. Pick through them to remove any small stones or debris. Set aside. Soaking is not required for this recipe.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery (the mirepoix). Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.
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Step 3
- a.Bloom Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
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Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer: Add the rinsed split peas, smoked ham hock, chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Stir everything together. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.
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Step 5
- a.Slow Cook: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 90 minutes. Stir the soup every 20-30 minutes to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The soup is done when the peas are completely tender and have started to break down, creating a thick, creamy consistency.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Shred the Ham: Carefully remove the ham hock from the soup and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes until it's safe to handle. Using two forks or your fingers, pull the meat from the bone. Discard the bone, skin, and any large pieces of fat. Shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- 7
Finish the Soup: Return the shredded ham to the pot
- a.Remove and discard the bay leaf. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup directly in the pot, leaving some texture. Stir well to combine.
- 8
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt as needed
- a.The ham hock adds significant saltiness, so you may need very little. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or croutons.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't salt the soup until the very end. The ham hock releases a lot of salt as it cooks, so tasting before seasoning is crucial.
- 2The soup thickens considerably as it cools. When reheating leftovers, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- 3For a richer flavor, you can add a parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers. Just remember to remove it before serving.
- 4This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
Omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. To replicate the smoky flavor, add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke along with the other spices.
Slow Cooker MethodSlow Cooker Method
Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add all other ingredients (except salt) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Proceed with shredding the ham and seasoning as directed.
Herb VariationsHerb Variations
Instead of thyme, try using dried rosemary or a combination of marjoram and sage for a different aromatic profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Dietary Fiber
Split peas are an incredible source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Excellent Source of Protein
This soup provides a powerful protein punch from both the split peas and the ham hock. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and overall body function.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The combination of carrots, celery, and onions provides a good source of essential nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and potassium, which support vision, bone health, and blood pressure regulation.
Frequently asked questions
A 1.5 cup serving of this soup contains approximately 420-480 calories, depending on the size and fat content of the ham hock used.