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Let me share my grandmother's split pea soup recipe that's been warming our family for generations! After years of watching her make this comforting soup I've finally perfected her technique. That magical combination of tender split peas smoky ham and fresh vegetables creates the most amazing hearty meal. The first time I made it exactly like she used to my dad said it took him right back to his childhood kitchen!
Why This Soup Is Special
This isn't your ordinary pea soup! Something incredible happens when those split peas slowly break down creating this naturally creamy texture without any cream at all. Last week when I made this for my neighbor who was feeling under the weather she said it was better than any medicine. Even my kids who usually avoid anything green ask for seconds!
What You'll Need
- The Base:
- Good quality olive oil
- Fresh yellow onion
- Crisp celery stalks
- Sweet carrots
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Rich chicken broth
- Plain water
- The Stars:
- Dried split peas
- A meaty ham bone
- Fresh bay leaves
- Fragrant thyme
- Sea salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Let's Start Cooking
- Building Our Foundation
- First sauté those aromatic vegetables in olive oil until they're soft and fragrant. The kitchen starts smelling amazing right away! My kids always wander in asking what smells so good.
- Creating The Base
- Add those split peas broth and that precious ham bone. When everything starts simmering together it's like conducting a soup symphony! Watching those peas slowly break down creating that creamy texture pure kitchen magic.
- The Final Touch
- Shredding that tender ham back into the soup and adjusting the seasonings until everything's just perfect. I love this moment when my grandmother's recipe comes to life in my kitchen!
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Making It Perfect
Want to know my secrets for the best split pea soup? Don't skip sautéing those vegetables at the start they need time to develop their flavors. Keep an eye on the liquid level as it cooks adding more if needed. And here's my favorite tip save that ham bone from your holiday ham it makes the best soup!
Serving It Up
This soup needs good crusty bread for dunking! I love serving it in deep bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. For lunch gatherings I'll often make a double batch everyone always wants to take some home. Sometimes I'll make grilled cheese sandwiches on the side perfect for a cozy winter meal!
Saving Some For Later
This soup actually gets better the next day! As it sits in the fridge it gets even thicker and the flavors develop beautifully. I often make a big pot on Sunday and we enjoy it throughout the week. Just add a little extra broth when reheating to get the perfect consistency.
Mix It Up
Don't be afraid to make this recipe your own! Sometimes I'll add diced potatoes makes it extra hearty. For vegetarian friends I skip the ham and add smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. Once I added some fresh dill at the end absolute game changer! That's what makes cooking fun finding your perfect combination.
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Why This Recipe Matters
This soup has become more than just a meal in our house it's our connection to family history! There's something so special about making the same recipe that's warmed generations of our family. My kids are learning to cook helping chop vegetables and watching simple ingredients transform into something wonderful.
The best part isn't just how delicious it is it's seeing everyone's faces light up with that first spoonful! Whether you're making it for someone who needs comfort or just because you want something warming and wholesome this never disappoints. And watching people discover the magic of this family recipe? That's what makes cooking so rewarding!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why isn't my soup thickening?
Try simmering uncovered for the last 30 minutes. The soup will also naturally thicken as it cools. If too thick, thin with additional water.
- → Can I make this without ham?
Yes, though the ham adds significant flavor. For vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
- → Do I need to soak the split peas?
No soaking required, just rinse and pick through them. Split peas cook relatively quickly compared to other dried legumes.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The soup will thicken significantly when chilled, thin with water when reheating.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before freezing and leave room for expansion in the container.
Conclusion
A hearty soup made with split peas and ham, offering warmth and nutrition in every spoonful. Simple to prepare and adaptable to various cooking methods.