English Pub Split Pea Soup

This English pub split pea soup is a hearty and comforting recipe, which includes a meaty ham bone and dried green split peas. It’s a diabetic-friendly soup option, slow-cooked to perfection in about 5 hours. With high fiber, low fat, and balanced protein, it’s a smart choice for managing blood sugar while enjoying a rich, pub-style dish.

English Pub Split Pea Soup Ingredients

• 1 meaty ham bone
• 1-1/3 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 1 sweet onion, chopped
• 4 cups water
• 1 bottle (12 ounces) light beer
• 1 tablespoon prepared English mustard
• 1/2 cup 2% milk
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Additional minced fresh parsley, optional

How To Make English Pub Split Pea Soup

1. Layer in the slow cooker: Place the ham bone in a 4-quart slow cooker. Add the rinsed split peas, celery, carrot, and onion.
2. Add liquid and mustard: In a bowl, combine the water, beer, and mustard. Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on high: Cover and cook on high for 5-6 hours or until the peas are tender.
4. Remove and trim ham bone: Take out the ham bone and let it cool slightly. Trim away the fat, remove meat from the bone, and discard fat and bone.
5. Return meat and finish soup: Cut the ham into bite-sized pieces and return to the slow cooker. Stir in the milk, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Garnish and serve: If desired, top each bowl with additional minced parsley.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make this without beer? Yes, substitute the beer with additional water or low-sodium chicken broth.
• How to make it smoother: Use a blender or food processor to puree part or all of the soup for a creamier texture.
• Best mustard substitute: If English mustard isn’t available, use horseradish mustard or spicy brown mustard.
• Can I freeze split pea soup? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
• How to thicken the soup: Let it simmer uncovered at the end if you prefer a thicker consistency.

What To Serve With English Pub Split Pea Soup

This soup pairs perfectly with classic sides like:

• Buttered rye or crusty bread
• Cheddar cheese biscuits
• Roasted vegetables
• Pickles or chutney
• Simple green salad

How To Store English Pub Split Pea Soup

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Facts

• 1 cup: 141 calories.
• 1g fat (0 saturated fat).
• 1mg cholesterol.
• 193mg sodium.
• 25g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber).
• 9g protein.

FAQs

Can I use leftover ham instead of a ham bone?
Yes, just add 1 to 1 1/2 cups of chopped cooked ham and use broth for extra flavor.

How to make split pea soup vegetarian?
Skip the ham bone and use vegetable broth; consider adding smoked paprika for depth.

Why are my peas still hard?
Old peas or acidic ingredients can prevent softening—make sure peas are fresh and avoid adding salt early.

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes, the flavor will be slightly milder but still delicious.

How do I thin the soup after cooking?
Stir in more milk, water, or broth until desired consistency is reached.