1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
2 cups diced ham
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
Brown the ham:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed ham and sauté until lightly browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove the ham from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the veggies:
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the garlic.
Add peas, liquids & ham:
Add the split peas, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, pepper, and the ham back into the pot. Stir well.
Simmer:
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Partially cover and simmer for 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas break down and the soup becomes thick and creamy. Skim the top if needed.
Adjust texture:
If you prefer a smoother soup, blend a portion with an immersion blender. Add extra water or broth if it becomes too thick.
Season:
Taste and add salt only if needed — the ham adds plenty of flavor.
Find it online: https://yumohyum.com/my-moms-cozy-split-pea-soup-recipe/