There’s nothing quite like a bowl of split pea soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This classic dish is packed with wholesome ingredients, rich flavors, and comforting textures that make it a staple in many households. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal to feed your family or a dish that gets better as leftovers, split pea soup delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can keep it simple or load it up with your favorite add-ins. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best split pea soup from scratch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: The split peas break down into a creamy, thick texture, making the soup feel substantial and satisfying.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins, this soup is as healthy as it is tasty.
- Budget-Friendly: Split peas are affordable and shelf-stable, making this recipe perfect for meal prepping on a budget.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy preparation make this soup a go-to option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- Split peas (1 lb, dried, rinsed and sorted)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Onion (1 large, diced)
- Carrots (3, chopped)
- Celery (3 stalks, chopped)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Ham hock or diced ham (optional, for extra flavor)
- Bay leaf (1)
- Thyme (1 tsp, dried)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Vegetable or chicken broth (8 cups)
Optional Additions
- Potatoes (diced, for extra heartiness)
- Smoked paprika or cumin (for a smoky twist)
- Spinach or kale (for added greens)
- Bacon crumbles (as a topping)
How to Make Split Pea Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the rinsed split peas to the pot.
- Add the broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.
- If using, add the ham hock or diced ham.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Cover and let it simmer for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and begin to break down.
- Season and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf (and ham hock, if used).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, blend part of it with an immersion blender.
Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup
- Rinse the Peas Thoroughly: This removes any debris and reduces foam during cooking.
- Low and Slow: Let the soup simmer gently to develop deep, rich flavors.
- Stir Occasionally: Split peas can stick to the bottom of the pot, so give the soup a stir now and then.
- Texture Control: Blend the soup partially for a creamier texture or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
What to Serve with Split Pea Soup
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- Grilled cheese or ham sandwiches
- Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables for added texture
FAQs
- Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip the ham.
- Do split peas need soaking? No, but rinsing is essential to remove debris.
- Why is my soup too thick? Add extra broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop, adding broth as needed to adjust the consistency.
Variations
- Curried Split Pea Soup: Add curry powder and ginger for a spiced twist.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use coconut milk for creaminess and top with crispy chickpeas.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh parsley, dill, or rosemary for an herbal boost.
Conclusion
Split pea soup is a timeless classic that’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you keep it simple or experiment with bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a wholesome, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every spoonful!
Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is a hearty and nutritious dish made with dried split peas, vegetables, and broth. It's typically flavored with herbs like thyme and bay leaves, making it a comforting and satisfying meal, especially in colder months. The soup is easy to prepare and cook, requiring only basic ingredients like onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, making it a perfect option for a wholesome, vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
- 1 Split peas lb, dried, rinsed and sorted
- 2 Olive oil tbsp
- 1 Onion large, diced
- 3 Carrots chopped
- 3 Celery stalks, chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- Ham hock or diced ham optional, for extra flavor
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 Thyme tsp, dried
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 Vegetable or chicken broth cups
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the rinsed split peas to the pot.
- Add the broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.
- If using, add the ham hock or diced ham.
Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Cover and let it simmer for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and begin to break down.
Season
- Remove the bay leaf (and ham hock, if used).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, blend part of it with an immersion blender.