Grandma's Split Pea Soup Recipe That You Need To Make

There is nothing quite like a bowl of Grandma's split pea soup to transport you back to simpler times. This hearty comfort food is a memory, a tradition, and a time machine that takes you back to special family gatherings spent around the table at Grandma’s house. 

The key to its distinctive flavor and texture lies in the harmonious blend of dried split peas, meaty ham bone, and a medley of veggies and spices. This post will guide you through the process of recreating this old-time favorite, giving you a taste of nostalgia in every spoonful.

Is Split Pea Soup Healthy?

Beyond its comforting taste and texture, split pea soup brings an array of health benefits to the table. Packed with carbohydrates, it's a great source of energy, helping you stay fueled throughout the day. 

The green and yellow split peas are rich in potassium, essential for maintaining heart health and blood pressure. They also provide a good dose of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, boosting your immune system and promoting good vision.

Split pea soup is also high in calcium, vital for strong bones and teeth. But that's not all. The lentils in the soup not only add an extra layer of flavor but also come loaded with dietary fiber, which can help regulate cholesterol levels. 

The inclusion of veggies like celery stalks and yellow onions ups the nutritional ante even further, making split pea soup a healthy, well-rounded meal.

So, whether you're looking for a comforting dish to warm you up on a chilly day or a nutrient-packed meal to keep you healthy, Grandma's split pea soup recipe is the answer.

What Are the Key Ingredients for Grandma's Split Pea Soup Recipe?

To recreate Grandma's split pea soup, you'll need a selection of carefully chosen ingredients. Start with a blend of green and yellow split peas, the backbone of this dish, known for their creamy texture and mild flavor. The ham hock or ham shank infuses the soup with a rich, meaty taste - a trick Grandma swears by for achieving depth of flavor.

Next, you'll need some diced ham for added texture, and a drizzle of olive oil to saute the veggies. Black pepper and a bay leaf bring a hint of spice and warmth to the soup. You'll also need a mix of chicken broth and lentils to create a hearty, filling base.

For the veggies, a combination of diced yellow onion and minced garlic cloves form the aromatic base of the soup. Add in marjoram and oregano for a herby note that complements the peas and ham beautifully. Finally, a sprinkle of paprika lends a smoky touch to the soup, rounding off the flavors perfectly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Split Pea Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's get cooking. Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the diced onion and saute until it turns translucent. Next, add your minced garlic, stirring until it releases its aroma.

Add the diced ham, ham bone or ham hock, and lentils into the pot. Stir well, then add the green and yellow split peas. Pour in your chicken broth and sprinkle in the marjoram, oregano, black pepper, and paprika. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.

If you're using a slow cooker or an instant pot, simply combine all the ingredients and set your device to the appropriate settings. 

For a smoother texture, puree the soup once it's cooked.

Remember, patience is key here. The longer the soup cooks, the more the flavors will meld together, resulting in a delicious, hearty soup. The cook time will vary depending on the method you choose, but a good rule of thumb is to cook until the peas are tender and the flavors are well combined.

Grandma's Split Pea Soup Recipe Card

Here's a quick reference to Grandma's split pea soup recipe:

Prep time: 15 minutes 

Cook time: 2 hours 

Total time: 2 hours, 15 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green split peas
• 1 cup yellow split peas
• 1 ham bone or ham hock
• 1 cup diced ham
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth or chicken stock
• 1 cup lentils
• 2 cups diced veggies
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon marjoram
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Tools We Used:

• GIR Ultimate Ladle: This ladle features a precision pouring edge designed so you don’t waste a drop of your delicious split pea soup.
• GIR Whisk: The sturdy construction won't bend or break during those vigorous whisking sessions. 

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and saute until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ham, ham bone or ham hock, and lentils. Stir well.
3. Add split peas, chicken broth, and spices, and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer until peas are tender and flavors are well combined.
5. Once the soup is ready, ladle it into a bowl, ensuring you get a good mix of the peas, veggies, and ham.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of soup and the warm memories it brings back!

What Are Some Tips and Tricks for the Best Split Pea Soup?

Achieving the perfect batch of split pea soup requires a few tips and tricks under your sleeve. To start with, reheating the soup can be tricky. The key is to whisk in a little water or broth to prevent it from thickening too much, then heat it slowly over medium heat. If you're planning to store the soup, make sure to use an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Have a leftover ham bone or a ham steak at hand? Don’t throw it away! These can be used to add an extra layer of flavor to your soup. If you're a vegetarian, you can easily adjust the recipe by swapping the ham and chicken broth with vegetable broth and adding more veggies to keep it hearty and flavorful.

What Are Some Serving Suggestions for Split Pea Soup?

Presentation is everything when it comes to serving your soup. Garnish it with croutons, fresh parsley, and green peas to add color and texture. These elements not only make the dish visually appealing but also enhance the overall eating experience.

Split pea soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This soup also makes a great starter for holiday meals. Its heartiness and warmth make it a perfect dish for Christmas and other festive occasions, setting the tone for the feast to come.

The Takeaway

Grandma's split pea soup recipe is truly a treasure. It's a comforting, wholesome dish that's packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you recreate this timeless recipe with ease.

Having the right tools in your kitchen can make the cooking process even more enjoyable. This is where we come in. 

At GIR, we are revolutionizing kitchenware to ensure you have efficient, safe, and durable tools at your disposal. Just like our 5-Piece Ultimate Tool Set, each tool is designed with precision and care, mirroring your approach to cooking this timeless soup recipe. 

Explore our line of kitchenware to equip your kitchen with tools that ensure you get it right as you embark on your journey of recreating Grandma's special recipe.

Sources:

Split Peas | Nutrition Facts

Fiber-full Eating for Better Health and Lower Cholesterol | Harvard Health

Psychologists Explain Why Food Memories Can Feel So Powerful | HuffPost

From Thick to Just Right: Thinning Out Thick Soup | Home Cook World