Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe

Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe is made with dried split peas, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, smoked ham hock, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, and simple seasonings like salt and pepper. This hearty and comforting Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe creates a satisfying and warm dinner or lunch option that takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe Ingredients

• 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 1 cup diced smoked ham)
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients Rinse the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
2. Sauté the Vegetables In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Combine the Ingredients Add the rinsed split peas, smoked ham hock, chicken broth, dried thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Cook the Soup Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Remove the Ham Hock Once the peas are fully cooked, remove the ham hock from the pot. Shred the meat from the bone, discard any fatty pieces, and return the shredded meat to the soup.
6. Season and Adjust Remove the bay leaves. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Recipe Tips

• Boost the Flavor with Herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or sage while the soup simmers for an extra depth of flavor. Remove them before serving.
• Smoky Touch: If you’re using regular ham instead of a smoked ham hock, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to achieve that smoky taste.
• Texture Variations: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup after it’s cooked. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half or leave it as is.

How To Store Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe

Refrigerate: Cool the Woolworths Split Pea Soup completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe

On The Stovetop: Pour the leftover Woolworths Split Pea Soup into a pot and add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

In The Microwave: Transfer a portion of the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

In The Slow Cooker: If reheating a large quantity, transfer the soup to a slow cooker and set it to low. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

What To Serve Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe

Woolworths Split Pea Soup Recipe pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, buttered rolls, and a simple green salad. It also can be served alongside cornbread, cheese biscuits, grilled cheese sandwiches, and roasted vegetables for better savoring of the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?

No, soaking is not required for split peas. They cook quickly and soften during the simmering process. However, rinsing them thoroughly before cooking is important to remove any dirt or debris.

Can I make this soup without a ham hock?

Yes, you can omit the ham hock to make the soup vegetarian or vegan. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

What if my soup is too thick?

If the soup is too thick, simply add more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember to stir well after adding liquid to ensure even texture.

Try more recipes:

• Woolworths Creamy Chicken Soup Recipe
• Bill Miller Vegetable Soup Recipe
• Chicken Rosa Marina Soup Recipe