This split pea soup is warm, hearty, and full of flavor! Made with tender split peas, veggies, and spices, it’s a perfect comfort dish for chilly days.
I love how easy it is to whip up a big pot. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, so I often save some for lunch. Who doesn’t love a meal that does double duty? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A healthy fat to start with! You can substitute with canola oil or butter if that’s what you have on hand, but olive oil adds a nice flavor.
Onion: I always use yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, use shallots or even leeks; they’ll give a different, lovely flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch, but if you have garlic powder, use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove. Just adjust if you’re a garlic lover!
Split Peas: Green split peas are traditional. If you want a twist, yellow split peas work too. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they might cook a little faster.
Broth: Vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version, while chicken broth adds a nice depth. Homemade broth works wonderfully if you have it!
Ham: Diced ham is optional but adds great flavor. You can substitute with smoked sausage or simply skip it for a vegetarian soup.
How Can I Achieve the Best Texture for My Soup?
The texture of split pea soup can really make it special. If you like a creamier soup, using an immersion blender is a fantastic trick. Here’s how:
- Once the peas are cooked through, remove the bay leaf.
- Blend just a portion of the soup to keep some chunks for texture. If you enjoy it super smooth, blend it all!
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.
Adjust the consistency by adding a bit of water or broth if it’s too thick. Enjoy finding your perfect texture!
Split Pea Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced (for garnish and flavor)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper for serving
- Crusty bread for accompaniment
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious split pea soup takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 45 to 60 minutes for cooking. It’s a great meal to have ready for lunch or dinner and gets even tastier as it sits, making leftovers a treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, throw in the chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies until they soften, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add Peas and Seasonings:
Next, toss in the bay leaf, dried thyme, and the rinsed split peas. Give everything a good stir to coat those peas with the flavorful mixture of oil and vegetables. Let it cook for about a minute to release the awesome smells!
3. Pour in the Liquid:
Now it’s time to add your broth and water. Bring the mixture to a cheerful boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for around 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the split peas are soft and starting to break down.
4. Blend for Texture:
Once the soup is finished cooking, carefully remove the bay leaf. For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup. If you like a little chunkiness, blend just half!
5. Season and Add Greens:
Now, taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it in now and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes just until it’s wilted.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the soup into bowls while it’s hot! Garnish with diced cooked ham if you’re using it, and add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Serve with crusty bread for dipping, and get ready to enjoy this comforting meal!
Enjoy the cozy warmth and flavor of this delightful split pea soup – perfect for any day!
Can I Use Dried Peas Instead of Split Peas?
No, dried peas and split peas are different. Split peas are dried peas that have been split in half; they cook faster and have a different texture. If you don’t have split peas, look for another appropriate recipe that uses dried peas!
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover split pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it in individual portions for up to 3 months!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit the diced ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be hearty and delicious without it!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you want to kick up the flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving. Smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can also add a nice depth of flavor!
