There’s something timeless about a bowl of split pea soup when the weather cools down. This high-protein version is built around clean, simple ingredients that offer both comfort and nourishment. With hearty vegetables, green split peas, and flavorful ham hocks, this recipe is ideal for feeding a family, prepping meals in advance, or enjoying a cozy solo lunch. It’s satisfying without being heavy, and packed with natural protein.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A Protein-Rich Bowl with Real Ingredients
This recipe delivers a generous dose of protein thanks to the combination of split peas and ham. With about 27 grams per serving, it’s a great option for those looking to eat well without relying on protein powders.
Perfect for Chilly Evenings
The rich, smoky flavor and thick, velvety texture make this soup ideal for cooler months. It’s warming, filling, and incredibly easy to love.
Simple to Make, Easy to Store
Made in one large pot with minimal prep, it’s just as good the next day—and even better after freezing. Whether for dinner or meal prep, it holds up beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each component in this soup plays a key role in building depth and nutrition.
1 ½ large yellow onions, diced
These form a savory base and add subtle sweetness as they cook.
2 large carrots, peeled and diced
They lend natural sweetness and boost the fiber content.
3 celery stalks, diced
Provides freshness and balance with a slight bitterness.
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Adds an earthy undertone that complements the peas and ham.
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Start with a light hand here, as ham hocks often carry plenty of salt.
1 (16-ounce) bag green split peas
These legumes are the backbone of the dish, offering creaminess, protein, and fiber.
2 ham hocks
These provide a deep, smoky flavor and tender meat that enriches the broth.
8 cups water
Used instead of stock, water allows the ham flavor to fully infuse the soup.
Optional toppings: croutons, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley
These finishing touches bring texture and fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
How to Make High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup
You’ll be surprised by how simple this soup is to put together. Everything goes into one large pot and is gently simmered until the flavors come together. The peas slowly break down to create a thick, creamy base, while the ham hocks tenderize and enrich the broth.
Once the meat is shredded and returned to the pot, the soup simmers again to reach its final consistency. The result is a bowl that feels both rustic and comforting, full of natural protein and flavor without any fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
In a large soup pot, combine the onions, carrots, celery, oregano, salt, split peas, ham hocks, and water.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 2 hours, stirring every so often to ensure nothing sticks.
Step 3: Shred the Ham
Carefully remove the ham hocks from the pot. Let them cool slightly, then cut the meat from the bones and shred it. Discard the bones and return the meat to the soup.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
Increase the heat and simmer uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes. The soup will thicken as the peas continue to break down. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the salt. If you like, add ground black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle into bowls and top with fresh herbs, grated parmesan, or crunchy croutons for extra flavor and texture.
Helpful Tips
Be Mindful of Salt
Ham hocks can be salty, so it’s best to season lightly at first and adjust after cooking.
Control the Thickness
The soup thickens naturally as it cooks. If it becomes too thick when reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Use a Potato Masher for Texture
If you want an extra creamy texture, gently mash a portion of the soup in the pot during the final simmer.
Don’t Skip the Final Simmer
The second simmer helps deepen the flavor and achieve the ideal consistency.
Repurpose Holiday Ham
If you have a leftover ham bone from a holiday meal, it’s a great substitute for store-bought hocks.
Notes (Optional Variations or Substitutions)
Vegetarian Option
Omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of water. For smoky depth, add smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Extra Protein
Shredded chicken or turkey can be stirred in toward the end of cooking. Lentils or quinoa are great plant-based additions.
Add Heat
A diced chili or some red pepper flakes can give this soup a gentle kick of spice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 388 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 31 mg |
| Sugar | 11 g |
| Fiber | 21 g |
| Sodium | 510 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you increase the protein content of split pea soup?
Add extra shredded ham, cooked chicken, turkey, or plant-based proteins like lentils or quinoa during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Is split pea soup naturally high in protein?
Yes. Green split peas provide a complete source of plant-based protein. Adding ham or poultry boosts the content even further.
What protein sources work best in classic split pea soup?
Ham hocks are traditional and flavorful. Other options include leftover baked ham, rotisserie chicken, or even turkey breast. Vegetarian alternatives like tofu or beans also work.
Can high protein split pea soup be frozen for later?
Yes. This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and stir in water if needed to restore the consistency.
Storage Instructions
In the Fridge
Once the soup has cooled, transfer it to sealed containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if it thickens too much.
In the Freezer
Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Use a saucepan over medium heat or microwave at half power, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth to thin if needed.
High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup | Cozy, Nourishing Comfort in a Bowl
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A cozy, nourishing soup made with split peas, vegetables, and smoky ham for a naturally high-protein, hearty meal perfect for cool weather.
Ingredients
1 ½ large yellow onions, diced
2 large carrots, peeled and diced
3 celery stalks, diced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt, or to taste
1 (16-ounce) bag green split peas
2 ham hocks
8 cups water
Optional toppings: croutons, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley
Instructions
1. Add all ingredients to a large soup pot.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2 hours.
3. Remove ham hocks, shred meat, discard bones, and return meat to soup.
4. Simmer uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes until thickened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve hot with toppings of choice.
Notes
Swap ham with smoked tofu or beans for a vegetarian version.
Add cooked turkey, chicken, or lentils for more protein.
Store in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 388
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 21g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 31mg
Conclusion
This High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup is a wonderful mix of simplicity, flavor, and nourishment. It’s a meal that brings warmth, comfort, and lasting satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a smart and cozy choice. Try it once and you’ll come back to it again and again.