Kermit's Classic Comfort: Hearty Split Pea Soup

Craving a hearty split pea soup recipe? This classic is easy, smoky, and tastes even better the next day! Like a hug in a bowl. Get the recipe now!

May 27, 2025
By Sandra.

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Alright, let's dive into this!

Recipe Introduction: Kermit's Classic Comfort - Hearty Split Pea Soup

Fancy a proper hug in a bowl? Then you need this split pea soup recipe in your life. Honestly, is there anything more comforting on a grey day?

A Bowlful of History

This split pea ham soup is a classic for a reason. think of it as the ultimate peasant food. hearty, cheap, and delicious.

It's been around for ages, probably since someone first figured out you could boil peas.

It's proper easy to make. prep takes about 20 mins, and cooking takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.

This split peas and ham soup recipe yields 6-8 servings, perfect for a family get-together.

Feel-Good Food

Split peas are packed with fibre. that is so good for you. this soup is perfect for a chilly night, and a great way to use up a leftover ham bone.

It's a proper winner! it's the best pea soup out there, in my humble opinion.

Ready to move onto the ingredients?

Let's Get Started

You'll need some olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. then grab some chicken broth (or veggie broth), split peas, a bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika.

Don't forget salt and pepper! if you want that classic ham split pea soup , a ham hock or some diced ham is a must.

Pro-Tip

A ham split pea soup crockpot is the way to go if you are busy. Just chuck everything in, and let it do its thing. You know?

Alright, let's dive into the heart of our kermit's classic comfort: hearty split pea soup ! this isn't just any soup, it’s proper comfort food.

It’s like a warm hug on a cold day, honestly.

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's break down what you need. Don't worry, it's all pretty straightforward.

Main Ingredients

Here's your shopping list, measurements included. I've added both US and metric because, you know, we're all friends here, yeah?

• Base:

  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
  • Onion: 1 large , diced (approx. 1 ½ cups / 175g )
  • Carrots: 2 , diced (approx. 1 cup / 125g )
  • Celery: 2 stalks , diced (approx. 1 cup / 100g )
  • Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (approx. 2 teaspoons / 10g )
  • Chicken broth: 8 cups (1.9 liters) . Or vegetable broth if you're going veggie .
  • Dried green split peas: 1 pound (450g) , rinsed. This is key for the split pea soup recipe !
  • Bay leaf: 1
  • Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml)
  • Salt and pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!

• Protein (Optional):

  • Smoked ham hock: 1 (approx. 1 lb / 450g) or diced cooked ham: 1 cup (approx. 150g) . For a great Ham Split Pea Soup .

• Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh parsley, chopped.
  • Croutons.

The split peas and ham soup is elevated by the ham hock! the better the quality of your ham hock, the richer the flavor.

Look for one that is meaty and has a good smoky aroma. this is very important.

Seasoning Notes

Spices are your friend! They can take this slip pea soup recipe to the next level.

• Smoked paprika is essential! It adds a lovely smoky depth. A pinch of cayenne can give it a little kick too.
• Thyme and bay leaf are classic herbs. They bring an earthy aroma.
• Don't have smoked paprika? Use regular paprika and a tiny splash of liquid smoke.

I always add a pinch of sugar to my soups. It balances the savory flavors. But, that's just me!

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple! You don't need fancy gadgets to make a good split pea and ham soup recipe .

• A big pot. A stockpot or Dutch oven is perfect.
• Chopping board and knife.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Ladle.

Don't have a stockpot? a large saucepan will do! a wooden spoon is your best friend when stirring. we're making dutch pea soup , but without the fuss, eh? i hope these tips help make your ham split pea soup crockpot cooking easier, it is a very rewarding experience, honestly.

Alright, let's dive into a proper split pea soup recipe , shall we? this isn't just any soup; this is kermit's classic comfort: hearty split pea soup .

I honestly think it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. so, grab your apron, and let's get started!

Prep Power: Mise en Place is Your Mate

First things first: the mise en place . it's a fancy french term. it just means getting everything ready. dice 1 large onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks.

Mince 2 cloves garlic. measure out 8 cups of chicken broth. rinse 1 pound of split peas . got it? good.

This saves so much time later! honestly, i used to skip this step. massive mistake. never again. also, watch your fingers when chopping.

Safety first, yeah?

From Zero to Hero: The Split Pea Soup Process

This split pea and ham soup is surprisingly easy.

1. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Do it in your large pot over medium heat. It takes about 5- 7 minutes. They should soften.
2. Add the minced garlic. Cook it for just 1 minute. You want it fragrant.
3. Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth. Now, add 1 pound of rinsed split peas , 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
4. Chuck in 1 smoked ham hock.
5. Bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours . You want the peas tender. Give it a stir now and then.
6. Remove the ham hock. Let it cool. Shred the meat. Discard the rest. Return the ham to the soup. If using diced ham, add 1 cup now!
7. Season with salt and pepper. Add more broth if needed.

Top Tips for Top-Notch Split Pea Ham Soup Crockpot

Want next-level split pea soup with ham bone ? A good Ham Split Pea Soup Crockpot is the way to go!

• Don't rush the simmer. Low and slow is the motto. It develops flavour.
• Stir occasionally . Stop it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Burnt dutch pea soup is no fun.
• Taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning. You know?

Common mistake: adding too much salt at once. Ham is salty! Also? Make-ahead. Best Pea Soup option? It tastes even better the next day.

Recipe Notes for Your Stellar Split Pea Soup

Alright, so you're about to dive into making this split pea soup recipe . honestly, it's easier than assembling an ikea bookshelf, promise.

Before you get started, let's run through a few things that'll make your life easier and your soup even better.

Serving Suggestions: Get Your Plating On!

Okay, so presentation isn't everything , but a little effort goes a long way, right? for plating, think rustic charm.

A swirl of cream (if you're feeling fancy), a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a generous dollop of creme fraiche.

Serve it in a bowl made out of bread for ultimate wow factor! on the side, you've gotta have some crusty bread for dipping.

Honestly, what is split peas and ham soup without some proper dipping action? a grilled cheese sandwich also goes incredibly well.

For a lighter option, a simple green salad cuts through the richness perfectly.

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Leftover dutch pea soup ? lucky you! it tastes even better the next day. let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

It'll keep for about 3-4 days. wanna freeze it? no problem! portion it out into freezer-safe containers. when reheating, thaw it out overnight in the fridge.

Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth if it's too thick. microwaving is fine in a pinch, but the stovetop is always the best way.

Variations: Make it Your Own!

Want to shake things up? You betcha.

• Dietary Adaptations: If you're going veggie, just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. And, of course, ditch the ham hock. A splash of liquid smoke can add that smoky flavour, or just use more smoked paprika.
• Seasonal Swaps: Come autumn, roast some butternut squash and throw it in for a sweet and earthy twist. In spring, some fresh peas can brighten things up.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl

Let's keep it simple, yeah? this slip pea soup recipe is packed with fiber. fiber helps keep you full and keeps your digestive system happy.

Split peas are also a great source of plant-based protein. they are a source of iron too. overall, it's a pretty darn healthy bowl of comfort.

So, there you have it. Your Ham Split Pea Soup Crockpot journey is about to begin. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. You got this!

One last thought: Did you know that split peas are one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world? So, you're not just making soup, you're making history! Now, get cooking and enjoy your delicious Spit Pea Soup With Ham Bone ! I hope you like my Ham Split Pea Soup Recipes ! Making Best Pea Soup doesn't have to be difficult!

Kermit's Classic Comfort: Hearty Split Pea Soup Recipe Card

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Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:01 Hrs 30 Mins

Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 large onion, diced (approx. 1 ½ cups / 175g)
• 2 carrots, diced (approx. 1 cup / 125g)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (approx. 1 cup / 100g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 2 teaspoons / 10g)
• 8 cups chicken broth (1.9 liters)
• 1 pound (450g) dried green split peas, rinsed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (5 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (2.5 ml)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 smoked ham hock (approx. 1 lb / 450g) or 1 cup diced cooked ham (approx. 150g)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Croutons

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add the rinsed split peas, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika.
3. If using a ham hock, add it to the pot.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the split peas are tender and have broken down, stirring occasionally.
5. If using a ham hock, remove it from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone and discard the skin, fat, and bone. Return the shredded ham to the soup. If using diced ham, add it now.
6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add more broth if the soup is too thick.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and croutons, if desired.