Slow Cooker Finnish Split Pea Soup

26 Dec

A comforting bowl of Finnish Split Pea Soup (hernekeitto), rich with tender split peas, ham, and garnished with mustard and fresh diced onions. Rustic and hearty, it’s a classic dish perfect for cold days.

If you’re looking for a cozy and flavourful way to use up leftover ham, Finnish Split Pea Soup (hernekeitto) is the answer. This traditional dish is a beloved staple in Finnish households, especially during the colder months. Made with dried split peas, smoky ham, and a few simple seasonings like marjoram, this soup is the epitome of hearty comfort food.

What makes hernekeitto even better is its simplicity. The ingredients simmer together, creating a thick, satisfying texture that warms you from the inside out. Top it with a dollop of mustard and fresh diced onions for an extra kick of flavor. Pair it with rye bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Got some extra ham after the holidays? This recipe is a great way to reduce waste while enjoying a dish that’s both nostalgic and nourishing. Plus, it freezes well, so you can enjoy it later too!

Ready to make your own hernekeitto? Grab your leftover ham and get cooking!

Frequently asked questions

Absolutely! Cook on medium-low heat for around 2-4 hours, depending on how thick you want your soup.
Yes. Instead of ham, you can use diced carrots, or go ahead with soya mince or other meat substitute as well.
It sure is! As long as your ham hasn’t been coated with breadcrumbs, like we do in Finland.
No, traditionally this dish is made in a soup pot. Simmer on medium-low heat for 2-3 hours. Keep stirring every now and then to prevent the soup from sticking to the pot.

Finnish Split Pea Soup

Total: 12h | Prep: 8h | Cook: 4h

Servings: 6

A hearty Finnish Split Pea Soup (hernekeitto) with smoky ham, split peas, and a touch of mustard and onions. Perfect for leftover ham!

Adjust Servings

Ingredients

400.0 gdried (split) peas
400.0 gleftover ham, cubed to quarter inch cubes
1.0 small onion, finely chopped
1.75 lof water
2.0 vegetable stock cubes
1.0 tbspmarjoram
to tastesalt and pepper

Instructions

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1Add water and peas to the slow cooker, and let them soak overnight.
2After soaking the peas, sauté the onions and add to the mixture.
3Add in diced (leftover) ham, stock cubes and marjoram.
4Cook for 4-5 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low, depending on how thick you want your soup. The time also depends on your slow cooker's power. You may want to cook an additional 30 minutes without the lid to thicken the soup more.
5Serve the soup with mustard, diced onion and rye bread. You can freeze any leftovers.