Introduction
Pressure Cooker Split Pea Soup with Ham is a hearty, comforting dish packed with protein, fiber, and nostalgic flavor. Made effortlessly in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, this version transforms humble ingredients like dried peas, ham, and root vegetables into a velvety, savory soup in under an hour. Perfect for chilly nights, leftover ham, or meal prepping, it’s a true one-pot wonder.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
Split pea soup has ancient roots, dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome. In modern history, it’s a staple in Northern and Central European cuisines (particularly Dutch, Swedish, and German), as well as in North American kitchens—especially where ham or ham bones are plentiful after holidays.
In the U.S., it’s closely associated with frugal home cooking, especially post-holiday meals where ham leftovers are turned into nourishing, cost-effective comfort food. The pressure cooker modernizes this classic, preserving tradition while embracing convenience.
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Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6–8)
1 tablespoon oil (olive oil or neutral)
1 onion, diced
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
1 cup diced ham + ham bone (if available)
1 pound (about 2¼ cups) dry split peas, rinsed and sorted
6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
3 bay leaves
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper as an alternative)
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Optional Additions
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 celery stalk, chopped (for added aromatic base)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth)
A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes (for heat)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt dollop (as a topping)
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Tips for Success
Sauté the onions first to add depth of flavor before adding the rest of the ingredients.
Use a meaty ham bone for richer flavor—remove before serving and shred any meat back into the soup.
Rinse split peas thoroughly to remove dust and ensure even cooking.
Do not overfill the pressure cooker—split peas expand significantly.
Let the soup naturally release pressure for the best texture and to avoid splatter.
Stir well after cooking to break down the peas into a smooth, thick consistency.
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Instructions
1. Set your pressure cooker to Sauté mode. Add 1 tablespoon oil, then sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Add carrots, potatoes, and optional garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Stir in diced ham, ham bone, split peas, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and white pepper.
4. Cancel sauté mode. Seal lid and cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
6. Open lid, remove bay leaves and ham bone. If desired, shred any meat from the bone and return it to the soup.
7. Stir thoroughly—split peas will break down into a thick, creamy texture.
8. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot.
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Description
This soup is creamy without cream, savory without excess fat, and deeply satisfying. The split peas break down to form a rich base, while chunks of potato, sweet carrots, and smoky ham provide balance. It’s cozy, comforting, and wholesome—a bowl full of flavor and tradition.
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Nutritional Information (Approximate per 1½ cup serving)
Calories: 300–350
Protein: 18–22g
Fat: 8–10g
Carbohydrates: 40–45g
Fiber: 10–13g
Sugars: 4–6g
Sodium: 700–900mg (depending on broth and ham)
High in fiber, moderate in protein, and very filling.
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Conclusion
Pressure Cooker Split Pea Soup with Ham offers a warm hug in a bowl—flavorful, nutritious, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re using up holiday leftovers or cooking from scratch, it’s a timeless dish that satisfies without fuss.
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Recommendation
Pair this soup with:
Crusty bread or cornbread
A crisp green salad
Pickled onions or beet salad for contrast
A light white wine or cider
It also stores well—perfect for lunch meal preps or freezing for a future cozy night in.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish even more balanced:
Use lean ham or turkey ham to reduce saturated fat.
Choose low-sodium broth and add salt to taste.
Load up on extra vegetables like celery, spinach, or kale.
Serve with whole grain bread for added fiber.
This soup is already a great example of comfort food that’s nourishing and budget-friendly. With minimal adjustments, you can make it even more aligned with your health goals—without compromising on taste or satisfaction.