Ever had a bowl of soup so comforting, it felt like a warm hug from a loved one? That’s exactly what my Grandma Ella’s split pea and ham soup was like.  Every spoonful brimmed with her love for cooking and the joy of bringing people together over a delicious meal.

This recipe isn’t just about split peas and ham (though those play a starring role, of course!). It’s a tribute to the woman who showed me the magic of cooking and the power of sharing a meal with loved ones. Feeling a little nostalgic for home cooking, or maybe just want a taste of pure comfort? Split Pea and Ham Soup is a dish guaranteed to warm your soul and maybe even inspire you to create your own heartwarming traditions in the kitchen.

This classic recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it effortlessly transforms humble ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort. With just a handful of pantry staples and leftover ham, it not only offers a delicious meal, but it also allows us to honor tradition while minimizing food waste, a win-win in every kitchen.

As the aroma of simmering split peas and savory ham fills the air, I’m transported back to cherished moments spent in my Grandma’s kitchen. Her gentle guidance and unwavering love infused every dish she made, instilling in me a deep appreciation for the art of cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.

The ingredients in this Split Pea & Ham recipe reigns supreme, with just a handful of wholesome ingredients infusing each spoonful with comfort and flavor. The ingredients include:

Leftover Ham (including the bone): Utilizing every part of the ham, including the flavorful bone, adds depth and richness to the soup. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers and minimize waste, staying true to a more practical approach to cooking. I personally like to use a smoked spiral ham, but whatever ham you choose, I am sure would work just fine. When you choose a bone in ham, it tends to add more flavor and nutrients to the soup.

Drippings from Cooked Ham: Don’t let those savory drippings go to waste! They’re packed with flavor and lend a delicious smokiness to the soup, enhancing its overall taste and aroma.

Split Peas: These humble legumes are the heart and soul of the dish, transforming into a velvety, satisfying soup when simmered to perfection. I use Blue Menu Split Peas for this recipe as they have always been of good quality and added a rich taste, ensuring a consistently delicious result every time.

Salt for Seasoning: The amount you add to your recipe all depends on how salty you like your soup and how salty your ham was to start with. Adjust the salt accordingly after you taste test it before serving. That will ensure each spoonful is perfectly seasoned to your liking.

For those looking to add a personal touch or enhance the flavor profile even further, customize your ingredients according to your own taste preferences. These may include adding:

Grated Carrot: Adding a hint of sweetness and vibrant color, grated carrot brings a subtle earthiness to the soup. It complements the savory notes of the ham and split peas beautifully, while also boosting the nutritional content.

Grated or Finely Chopped Celery: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider incorporating grated or finely chopped celery. Its crispness adds a delightful crunch to each spoonful, while its mild, herbal notes contribute depth to the overall flavor profile.

Cracked Pepper for Seasoning: Elevate the soup’s seasoning with a generous crack of fresh black pepper. Its subtle heat and aromatic undertones enhance the savory flavors of the ham and add a welcomed kick to every bite.

Whether you choose to keep it simple or experiment with additional ingredients, each variation is bound to delight the senses.

To preserve the soup for future enjoyment, proper storage is key. Here’s how to store this comforting dish to maintain its flavor and quality:

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or airtight sealable bag. Ensure that the container is tightly sealed to prevent any air from entering. Stored properly in the refrigerator, the soup will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer-term storage, freezing is your best bet. Ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion as the soup freezes. Alternatively, you can portion the soup into individual serving sizes for convenient reheating later. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification. When stored in the freezer, the soup should maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.

When ready to enjoy the frozen soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the container in a bowl of cold water to expedite the thawing process. Once thawed, reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.

To complement the hearty goodness of the soup, here are some perfect pairing ideas…

Warm Dinner Buns: There’s nothing quite like a freshly baked dinner bun that is perfect for dunking and enjoying alongside each comforting spoonful of soup.

Crackers: Whether you prefer classic saltines, whole grain crackers, or artisanal varieties, crackers add a satisfying crunch to every bite. They’re ideal for nibbling on between spoonfuls or crumbling into the soup for added texture.

Fresh Salad: Balance out the richness of the soup with a crisp, refreshing salad bursting with vibrant flavors and seasonal ingredients. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette with a medley of a variety of berries would provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.