Split Pea and Ham Soup

Split Pea and Ham Soup is a hearty, thick soup made from dried split peas, typically simmered with a meaty ham bone or ham hocks for deep, savory flavor. Common additions include onions, carrots, celery, and herbs like thyme, creating a comforting, rustic dish. It is a classic staple in American, British, and Northern European cuisines, often associated with home cooking and using leftover holiday ham.

🍳 View the full Split Pea and Ham Soup recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This soup is a balanced meal, offering a good mix of plant-based protein and fiber from the split peas, along with some fat from the ham. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) provides around 250-350 calories, with key nutrients including iron, potassium, and B vitamins.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	210 kcal
Protein	14 g
Carbs	24 g
Fat	6 g
Fiber	8 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	950 mg
Potassium	600 mg
Iron	3.0 mg
Vitamin A	1500 IU
Vitamin C	10 mg
Calcium	60 mg
Phosphorus	200 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.5 mg
Folate	100 mcg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, it's a prime example of 'waste-not' cooking, transforming a leftover ham bone into a nourishing new meal. Nutritionally, the combination of split peas and ham creates a complete protein profile, making it a particularly satisfying and sustaining dish.