Sauté Soffritto: Heat olive oil in pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, garlic, salt and pepper, and cook covered, stirring occasionally, until are translucent, around 5-7 minutes.
Build the Broth: Add peas, chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme, and bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer covered, until peas are softened, around 40-50 minutes for soaked (or 1 hour and 45 minutes, if not soaked). During the last 15-30 minutes of simmering, add ham pieces.
Final Touch: Remove bay leaves and serve 1 cup servings!
