A comforting and hearty split pea soup with ham, perfect for a cozy meal.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot before adding vegetables to enhance their flavor.
Add the chopped carrots, onion, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the pot.
Rinse the split peas under cold water and add them to the pot.
Rinsing the peas removes any debris and improves their texture.
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
Use hot water to speed up the boiling process.
Add the ham, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Stirring prevents the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Remove the ham and shred it into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot.
Let the ham cool slightly before shredding to avoid burns.
Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
Ensure no bay leaf pieces remain in the soup.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.