There’s something comforting and satisfying about a warm bowl of split pea soup, and Parker’s Split Pea Soup is the ultimate recipe for just that. Rich with flavor from a meaty ham hock and packed with tender vegetables, this hearty soup is the perfect balance of nutrition and comfort. Whether it’s a cold winter’s day or just when you’re craving a comforting homemade dish, this split pea soup brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction with every spoonful.

This recipe is easy to make, with simple ingredients that come together to create a deeply flavorful and nourishing soup. The split peas dissolve and thicken the broth, creating a smooth, velvety texture, while the smoky ham adds depth and richness. The best part? It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. This is a meal that’s as practical as it is delicious—whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Satisfying

With just a handful of ingredients, this soup is both simple to prepare and incredibly filling. It’s a great choice for those who love hearty, rustic meals that deliver comfort in every bite.

2. Hearty and Nutritious

Packed with split peas, vegetables, and protein from the ham, this soup is a nourishing, one-pot meal that’s full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

3. Rich in Flavor

The ham hock infuses the soup with a smoky, savory richness that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and the earthiness of the peas.

4. Easy to Make

This soup requires minimal prep, and the stovetop cooking process is mostly hands-off. You simply simmer it until the peas are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.

5. Perfect for Leftovers

Like many soups, Parker’s Split Pea Soup tastes even better the next day. It stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredients

1 pound green split peas
1 ham hock
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version

For a vegetarian take on this soup, skip the ham hock and use vegetable broth. You can add a smoky flavor by incorporating a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.

2. Add More Vegetables

If you’d like to bulk up the soup with more vegetables, feel free to add parsnips, potatoes, or even some spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

3. Spicy Split Pea Soup

For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the soup. This will give the soup a slight kick, complementing the smoky ham.

4. Use Bacon

If you don’t have a ham hock on hand, you can substitute with a few slices of crispy bacon. Bacon will give a similar smoky flavor, though it will be a bit less meaty than the ham hock.

5. Blended Soup

For a smoother texture, you can blend part or all of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender after removing the ham hock. This will make the soup creamy without the addition of cream.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Rinse the Split Peas

Start by rinsing the split peas thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Set them aside for later use.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the rinsed split peas, ham hock, chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer gently.

Step 4: Simmer

Let the soup simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. The split peas will start to break down and thicken the soup.

Step 5: Shred the Ham

After 1 1/2 hours, remove the ham hock from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone. Return the shredded ham back into the soup.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt to bring out the flavors, depending on how salty your ham hock and broth are.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re concerned about salt, use low-sodium chicken broth, as the ham hock can contribute a lot of salt to the soup.
Skim the Fat: As the soup simmers, fat from the ham will rise to the top. You can skim off some of the fat if you prefer a leaner soup.
Don’t Overcook the Peas: Keep an eye on the peas during the simmering process. If they break down too much, they could make the soup overly thick or mushy.
Enhance the Smokiness: If you’re using a ham hock with little meat or a non-smoked ham hock, add a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to boost the smoky flavor.
Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great make-ahead meal for leftovers or meal prepping.

How to Serve

Parker’s Split Pea Soup is a comforting meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of toasted sourdough or a crusty baguette for dipping.
A Side Salad: Pair the soup with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top, such as Parmesan or cheddar, can add a nice touch of richness.
Pickles or Relish: A tangy pickle or relish complements the hearty, smoky soup and adds some refreshing contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Parker’s Split Pea Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store the soup in an airtight container, and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Freezing

This soup also freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, simply bring the soup to a gentle simmer on the stove. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigerating, add a little extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried peas instead of split peas?

No, dried peas are a different type of legume and require a much longer cooking time. Stick to split peas for this recipe.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can skip the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a smoky flavor, add a little smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

3. Can I use ham instead of a ham hock?

Yes, you can substitute with cooked ham. Add it after the soup is done cooking, or you can add it at the beginning and cook along with the vegetables for a few hours.

4. Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes, split pea soup freezes very well. Store it in an airtight container, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

5. How do I make the soup thicker?

If you want a thicker soup, simply simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.

6. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can cook the soup in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

7. What can I use instead of ham hock?

If you don’t have a ham hock, you can use a smoked turkey leg or smoked sausage for a similar flavor profile.

8. Can I use frozen peas?

Frozen peas are not ideal for this recipe because they cook too quickly and won’t have the same texture as dried split peas. Stick with dried split peas for the best results.

9. How do I know when the peas are cooked?

The split peas should be tender and mostly broken down, creating a creamy consistency. If they’re still hard, continue cooking for a bit longer.

10. What can I serve with split pea soup?

Split pea soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Parker’s Split Pea Soup is a classic, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for cooler days or whenever you need something nourishing and comforting. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your

home. Whether served with crusty bread, a side salad, or enjoyed on its own, this split pea soup is sure to please!