This Split Pea Soup with Bacon & Ham is the epitome of comfort food. The smoky flavors from the bacon and ham infuse the creamy split peas, creating a hearty and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or simply craving a bowl of something warm and nourishing, this soup delivers on both taste and texture.
The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rich stock makes this soup not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a starter to a larger meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 slices bacon, chopped
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1/2 pound smoked ham, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
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3 celery ribs, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
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2 large carrots, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
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1 (16-ounce) bag dried split peas, rinsed
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1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
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8 cups chicken stock
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
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1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
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Fresh parsley, for serving (optional)
Directions:
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
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Add the diced onion, chopped celery, and chopped carrots to the pot. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Add the rinsed split peas, chopped fresh thyme, chicken stock, smoked paprika, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 1 to 1 1/4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are tender and have mostly broken down.
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If desired, use an immersion blender to blend about one-third of the soup for a creamier texture, then stir in the reserved crispy bacon and smoked ham pieces.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
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Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 198 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings
The History of Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is one of those time-tested dishes that has comforted families for generations. Its roots trace back to ancient civilizations, particularly in the Mediterranean and Middle East, where peas were a staple food. Over time, as dried legumes became more common in European diets, versions of split pea soup began appearing in Nordic, Dutch, and English cuisines.
In North America, split pea soup was popularized by settlers and homesteaders due to its affordability, nutritional density, and shelf-stable ingredients. The addition of ham or bacon often came from the need to use leftovers efficiently. Smoked meats not only preserved well but also brought a depth of flavor that elevated the humble soup into a hearty, satisfying meal. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide in various iterations, with the bacon-and-ham combination being one of the most iconic.
The Nutritional Value of Split Pea Soup
This soup is a powerhouse of nutrition. Split peas are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps with blood sugar regulation. They’re also an excellent source of plant-based protein, making the dish filling and suitable even without meat for those on vegetarian diets.
Adding bacon and ham introduces additional protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron. Despite the savory indulgence of the meats, the soup can still be considered a balanced meal thanks to the mix of vegetables—typically onions, carrots, and celery—which offer antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Because of its richness in fiber and protein, this soup is ideal for people aiming to stay fuller longer, support gut health, or manage weight. One serving typically contains around 198 calories, making it a nutrient-dense, low-calorie option for any meal.
Why This Version Stands Out
While traditional split pea soup recipes are often puréed to a silky texture, this version from The Modern Proper keeps things slightly rustic. It allows the vegetables and meats to maintain their integrity and texture, offering a more satisfying mouthfeel with every bite. The smoked paprika and fresh thyme in the seasoning blend enhance the natural earthy flavor of the peas, adding layers of warmth and subtle spice.
What really makes this recipe shine is the balance between creamy and chunky textures, and the interplay between smoky, savory, and sweet vegetable notes. It’s a soup that tastes like it simmered all day, but thanks to modern kitchen techniques, it’s ready in under two hours.
The Appeal of Split Pea Soup for All Seasons
Though commonly associated with colder months, split pea soup isn’t just a winter dish. Its nutritional profile makes it suitable year-round. In spring and summer, it can be enjoyed in lighter portions or chilled for a unique twist. In fall and winter, it becomes a cozy staple, served steaming hot with crusty bread.
The adaptability of this soup also makes it a great dish to batch cook and freeze. It reheats well, and the flavors often deepen after sitting overnight. For busy families or professionals, this is an ideal meal prep option that offers nourishment without compromise.
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
Despite its simple ingredients, split pea soup is surprisingly kid-friendly. The creamy consistency and mild flavor are often more appealing to young palates than chunky, overly spiced soups. You can even blend the entire soup smooth for toddlers or picky eaters who may be turned off by visible vegetables.
The bacon and ham offer a savory element that’s familiar and beloved by many children, turning what might be seen as a “green soup” into something they look forward to. With a side of grilled cheese or garlic toast, it becomes a family favorite that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Perfect for Special Diets
This split pea soup is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It’s also dairy-free, a bonus for individuals who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy for other reasons.
Those following a high-protein or high-fiber diet will appreciate how well this soup aligns with their goals. Vegetarians can easily adapt the recipe by omitting the bacon and ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can even boost the umami factor with mushrooms or smoked paprika to replicate that savory depth.
Tips for Customizing the Soup
One of the best features of split pea soup is how easily it can be customized. Want a thicker soup? Let it simmer uncovered for the last 15–20 minutes. Prefer a smoother texture? Blend half or all of it with an immersion blender.
You can also incorporate additional vegetables like potatoes, leeks, or spinach, or use different herbs such as rosemary or bay leaf for a unique flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings—think croutons, crispy pancetta, or a drizzle of chili oil for an elevated finish.
Even the choice of stock can affect the final taste. While chicken stock provides a light, savory backdrop, a homemade ham bone broth offers maximum richness and body.
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone as a meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic presentation, serve with a slice of buttered rye or sourdough bread. If you’re looking to up the ante, a grilled cheese sandwich or garlic toast complements the soup wonderfully.
For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing cuts through the richness of the soup, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
If you’re hosting a dinner party or gathering, consider serving small bowls of this soup as a starter. Its comforting aroma and flavorful profile make it a crowd-pleaser that sets the tone for the rest of the meal.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Split pea soup stores exceptionally well. In the refrigerator, it keeps for up to 5 days in an airtight container. The flavors tend to meld and deepen over time, making leftovers arguably more delicious than the first bowl.
To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into portioned containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or broth to thin it out, as the peas will continue to absorb moisture.
This make-ahead potential makes the soup a practical addition to weekly meal plans, especially during the colder months or for those managing busy schedules.
Conclusion
Split Pea Soup with Bacon & Ham is a timeless dish that blends tradition, nutrition, and indulgent flavor into one warm, welcoming bowl. Whether you’re revisiting a childhood classic or discovering it for the first time, this recipe offers something for everyone.
From its rich history and health benefits to its versatility and ease of preparation, this soup earns a spot in any home cook’s repertoire. It’s a beautiful balance of rustic simplicity and layered flavor that turns humble ingredients into something truly comforting and satisfying.
So, whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or preparing a dish for guests, let this split pea soup be the soul-soothing, belly-warming recipe you return to again and again.