English Pub Split Pea Soup

English Pub Split Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients in a deliciously warming way. Traditionally made with dried split peas and often flavored with ham or bacon, this soup is rich, thick, and perfect for chilly days. The earthy sweetness of the peas pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the ham and the aromatics, creating a satisfying meal that’s great as a starter or main course. It’s the kind of dish you’d find in a cozy pub, served alongside crusty bread and a pint of ale.

English Pub Split Pea Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock or 8 oz of diced ham
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Peas and Broth: Add the rinsed split peas to the pot, followed by the broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
3. Add Ham and Simmer: If using a ham hock, place it in the pot. If using diced ham, add it at this stage as well. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until the peas are soft and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Once the soup has thickened, remove the ham hock, shred any meat off the bone, and return the meat to the soup. Discard the bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread on the side.

Enjoy your cozy bowl of English Pub Split Pea Soup, perfect for warming up on a cool day!