Classic Creamy Split Pea Soup with Ham and Herbs

Ingredients

• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 medium onion, chopped
• •2 medium carrots, diced
• •2 celery stalks, diced
• •2 garlic cloves, minced
• •2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
• •1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
• •6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• •2 cups water
• •1 bay leaf
• •1 teaspoon dried thyme
• •1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• •Salt to taste
• •1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

3. 3

   Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add split peas, ham bone (or diced ham), chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.

5. 5

   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and the soup has thickened.

6. 6

   Remove the ham bone (if used) and shred any remaining meat off the bone back into the soup.

7. 7

   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

8. 8

   Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

9. 9

   Serve hot and enjoy!