Hurst Split Pea Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for something hearty, nutritious, and absolutely comforting, Hurst Split Pea Soup is a recipe that delivers all that and more. This rich, savory soup is perfect for cozy nights in or for making in bulk and storing for those chilly days ahead. Whether you’re familiar with split pea soup or new to it, this version, especially with the addition of Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup mix, takes the traditional recipe up a notch. It’s not just filling-it’s loaded with flavor, nutrients, and that perfect smoky hint from the ham.

Let’s dive into why this soup is a staple for so many households, the ingredients that make it so unique, and how you can create the perfect pot every time. If you’ve been wondering what to cook for the week or need a soul-soothing dish, keep reading, because this recipe will become a go-to.

Hurst Split Pea Soup Recipe

Hurst Split Pea Soup isn’t just any old split pea soup. This recipe combines a variety of high-quality ingredients with Hurst’s specialty soup mix, which takes all the guesswork out of seasoning and flavor balancing. What you’re left with is a deeply satisfying dish that simmers on the stove and fills your kitchen with the most comforting aromas.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 Package Of Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix

  • This mix includes split peas, seasoning, and a ham flavor packet, saving you time on seasoning.

• 1 Lb Of Ham, Ham Bone, Or Ham Hocks

  • The star of the show! Ham adds a rich depth of flavor, making the soup both hearty and comforting.

• 1 Medium Onion, Diced

  • For that subtle sweetness and savory base flavor.

• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

  • Garlic brings a kick and aromatic freshness to the mix.

• 3 Carrots, Peeled And Diced

  • Adds natural sweetness and a bit of texture contrast.

• 2 Celery Stalks, Chopped

  • For a slight crunch and additional vegetable goodness.

• 6 Cups Of Water Or Chicken Broth

  • If you prefer more flavor, use chicken broth. Water is also fine, especially if you’re using a meaty ham bone.

• 1 Bay Leaf

  • An aromatic herb that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Salt And Pepper, To Taste

  • For seasoning adjustments.

• Optional: A Pinch Of Thyme Or Smoked Paprika

  • For those who enjoy a little extra seasoning kick.

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse The Split Peas

   • Before you do anything else, take the time to rinse the split peas thoroughly. While the Hurst HamBeens package usually provides a high-quality product, you want to ensure there are no small stones or debris mixed in. Set them aside.

2. Cook The Ham

   • In a large soup pot, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham or ham bone. If you’re using a ham bone, you’ll need to simmer it for a while to release all the flavor. Sauté the ham for 4-5 minutes until it’s slightly browned. This step deepens the flavor of the ham, creating that smoky base you want.

3. Add Vegetables

   • Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and meld with the ham. You’ll begin to smell that wonderful aroma filling the air.

4. Add The Split Peas And Seasonings

   • Add the split peas, garlic, bay leaf, and any other optional seasonings. Pour in the water or chicken broth, ensuring everything is well-covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Adjust Seasoning

   • After an hour or so, check the texture of the peas. If they’re soft and starting to break apart, the soup is likely ready. You can always cook longer for a creamier texture or add extra water if it’s too thick. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or any additional spices as needed.

6. Serve And Enjoy

   • Once the peas have broken down, and the soup has thickened to your liking, remove the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, top with a little freshly ground black pepper or chopped parsley for a touch of color.

Ingredient Insights

• Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix

  This mix is the secret to achieving a perfect balance of flavors. The peas are pre-washed, and the included seasoning packet saves you the time and hassle of trying to figure out the right combination of herbs and spices. It ensures your soup is perfectly seasoned every time, so it’s perfect for those busy nights.

• Ham

  The type of ham you use can significantly impact the flavor of your soup. Ham hocks or a ham bone are preferred by many because they add a deeper, smokier taste as the meat releases its juices into the broth. Diced ham works well too, but you may miss some of that smoky richness. If you’re opting for diced ham, choose a higher quality ham for the best flavor.

• Vegetables

  The classic mirepoix of onion, carrots, and celery creates the aromatic base for any soup. The carrots add a gentle sweetness, while the celery brings some crunch and a touch of earthiness. The onion adds a savory undertone that complements the split peas and ham beautifully.

Expert Tips

• Simmer Low And Slow

  The longer the soup simmers, the more flavor you’ll extract from the ham and vegetables. If possible, let it simmer for at least 90 minutes for a deeply flavorful, tender soup.

• Ham Bone Advantage

  If you’re using a ham bone, keep in mind that you’ll need to remove it once the meat has loosened. But don’t discard it right away! Once cooled, you can pull the meat off the bone and add it back into the soup, enhancing the texture and taste.

• Storage

  This soup stores really well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days and freezes excellently for up to three months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.

• For A Creamier Soup

  If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. Just be sure to leave some chunks for texture.

Recipe Variations

Split pea soup is highly adaptable. Here are some variations to keep things exciting:

• Vegetarian Split Pea Soup

  Skip the ham entirely and replace it with a vegetarian or vegetable broth. You can add a touch of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without the meat. For extra heartiness, throw in some diced potatoes or mushrooms.

• Spicy Split Pea Soup

  If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to give the soup a spicy kick.

• Extra Greens

  Add some kale, spinach, or even swiss chard in the last 10 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.

• Smoked Turkey Version

  Switch out the ham for smoked turkey for a slightly different, yet equally smoky and savory soup. The turkey will add a lighter, yet still deep flavor.

Final Words

Hurst’s Split Pea Soup recipe is the kind of dish that can transport you back to your childhood or make you feel like you’re in a cozy cabin in the middle of winter. With a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a bowl of comfort that will fill you up and satisfy your taste buds. It’s a versatile recipe, so you can adjust it to your liking, whether you prefer it smoky, spicy, or packed with vegetables.