Ah, the humble split pea and ham soup! There’s something undeniably comforting about this dish. Imagine a warm, hearty bowl on a chilly day, steam curling up as you take your first spoonful-velvety peas, savory ham, and a medley of vegetables all coming together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell like a cozy country kitchen and your taste buds do a little happy dance. And the best part? You can make it effortlessly in a crock pot, meaning you can prep it in the morning, go about your day, and return to a meal that practically cooked itself. No standing over the stove, no constant stirring-just pure, simple, satisfying comfort.
This recipe isn’t just about convenience. It’s about creating layers of flavor that develop slowly over hours, giving you a richness you can taste in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving a bowl of soul-soothing soup, this split pea and ham soup crock pot recipe is about to become your new go-to.
Split Pea And Ham Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Here’s the game plan: split peas, a smoky ham bone (or leftover ham), and a colorful mix of vegetables all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s satisfying, nutritious, and easy on the effort. The slow-cooking process is what makes this soup truly magical-the peas break down into a creamy texture while the flavors meld together like they’ve been longtime friends. The result? A bowl of soup so hearty and flavorful you’ll wonder why you ever bought canned soup.
Ingredients Needed
For this recipe, you’ll need some staples from your pantry, fridge, and possibly the freezer. Here’s a detailed list:
- Split peas – 1.5 cups (green or yellow, or a mix for a nuanced flavor)
- Ham – 2-3 cups diced ham or a smoked ham hock/bone
- Carrots – 2-3 medium, peeled and diced
- Celery – 2-3 stalks, diced
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2-3 cloves, minced
- Potatoes – 1-2 medium, diced (optional for extra heartiness)
- Bay leaves – 1-2 for aromatic depth
- Thyme – 1 teaspoon dried or a few fresh sprigs
- Chicken or vegetable broth – 6-8 cups
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Olive oil or butter – 1-2 tablespoons (optional, for sautéing veggies first)
- Optional flavor enhancers: smoked paprika, a splash of vinegar, or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick
Cooking Instructions
Here’s where the magic happens-step by step:
- Prep the vegetables: Dice carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. Mince the garlic. Think of this as the aromatic foundation of your soup.
- Optional sauté step: In a small pan, sauté onions, carrots, and celery with olive oil or butter for 3-5 minutes. This boosts the flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
- Combine ingredients: In your crock pot, add split peas, ham, sautéed vegetables, potatoes, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and broth. Stir gently.
- Season: Add salt and pepper lightly now, and adjust later at the end of cooking.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking allows the peas to break down and thicken the soup naturally.
- Check consistency: If it’s too thick, add more broth or water. If too thin, remove the lid and let it cook a bit longer.
- Finish and serve: Remove bay leaves and thyme stems (if using fresh). Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Ingredient Insights
- Split peas: High in protein and fiber, these little legumes become creamy as they cook. Green peas are slightly earthy; yellow peas are milder.
- Ham: Adds saltiness and depth. A ham bone will make a richer, more authentic broth. Leftover diced ham works in a pinch.
- Vegetables: Carrots and celery are classic aromatics that give sweetness and body. Potatoes add extra heartiness.
- Herbs & seasonings: Bay leaves and thyme are essential for depth. Smoked paprika or a touch of vinegar can add a surprising layer of flavor.
Expert Tips
- Soak peas? Not necessary, but a quick rinse helps remove dust and debris.
- Ham bones vs. diced ham: Bones provide richer flavor; diced ham is convenient.
- Blending for creaminess: For a silky texture, blend half the soup before serving.
- Time saver: Chop vegetables the night before or use pre-chopped packs.
- Storage: Keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
Want to put your own spin on it? Consider these:
- Vegetarian: Omit ham, add smoked paprika and extra vegetables like mushrooms for umami.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Chunky style: Skip blending for a rustic, hearty texture.
- Cheesy comfort: Stir in shredded cheese or top each bowl with Parmesan.
- International twist: Add a splash of coconut milk and curry powder for a fusion flavor.
Final Words
Split pea and ham soup in a crock pot is more than a recipe-it’s an experience. It’s about slow-cooked comfort, about flavors melding over hours, about creating a bowl of warmth that feels like a hug. It’s also ridiculously versatile, accommodating dietary tweaks, flavor experiments, or whatever leftovers you have on hand.
It’s simple to prep, simple to cook, but infinitely satisfying. And there’s something genuinely special about coming home to a kitchen that smells incredible and a meal that’s already done.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For A Split Pea And Ham Soup In A Crock Pot?
For a basic split pea and ham soup, you’ll need split peas, ham (preferably leftover ham or a ham bone), onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Some recipes may also include potatoes or parsley for added flavor.
How Long Should I Cook Split Pea And Ham Soup In The Crock Pot?
Cooking time can vary depending on the size of your crock pot and the desired consistency of the soup. Generally, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The peas should be tender and the ham should be well incorporated into the soup.
Can I Use Dried Split Peas For This Recipe?
Yes, dried split peas are ideal for this soup. They break down during the slow cooking process, giving the soup its characteristic thickness and texture. Just be sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the crock pot.
Do I Need To Soak Split Peas Before Cooking In A Crock Pot?
No, you do not need to soak split peas before using them in a crock pot. The slow cooking process will soften the peas without pre-soaking, though you should rinse them to remove any debris.
Can I Use A Bone-in Ham For This Recipe?
Yes, a bone-in ham works wonderfully in split pea and ham soup. The bone adds extra flavor, and the meat will become tender over the slow cooking process. You can either remove the bone at the end of cooking or leave it in for a heartier texture.
What Type Of Ham Is Best For Split Pea Soup?
A smoked ham or leftover ham from a roast is ideal for split pea and ham soup. It adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the earthy taste of the split peas. If you’re using a fresh ham, you may need to add extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Can I Add Potatoes To Split Pea And Ham Soup?
Yes, potatoes can be added to the soup for extra texture and substance. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are popular choices. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mash some of the potatoes at the end of cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of split pea soup by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of ham.
How Can I Thicken Split Pea And Ham Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If your soup is too thin, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, or you can add a thickener like cornstarch or flour. For a natural option, cook the soup a little longer with the lid off to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Can I Freeze Split Pea And Ham Soup?
Yes, split pea and ham soup freezes well. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove.