A bowl of hearty split pea soup with carrots, celery, and ham, garnished with fresh herbs.

The Best Split Pea Soup Recipe 🍲

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Looking for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make soup? This split pea soup recipe is packed with flavor, protein, and fiber, making it the perfect dish for a chilly evening. Whether you love the classic ham version, a vegetarian alternative, or a Crockpot-friendly recipe, this guide has you covered!

Split peas are naturally rich in protein and fiber, making this soup both nutritious and filling. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that stores well and tastes even better the next day.

If you’re interested in how different ingredients impact nutrition, check out this guide on the health benefits of split peas. Also, if you’re a fan of soups, you might love this classic, smoky bean dish: Cowboy Beans Recipe.

🥕 Ingredients for the Split Pea Soup Recipe

Essential Ingredients

  • 1 pound of dried split peas (green or yellow)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 smoked ham hock or ham bone (optional, for deeper flavor)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • Potatoes, for a creamier texture
  • Bacon, for a smokier taste
  • Smoked paprika, for extra depth

For more seasoning inspiration, check out this guide on the best herbs for soups.

A steaming bowl of split pea soup with chunks of ham, carrots, and celery, served with crusty bread.
Warm up with a comforting bowl of split pea soup, packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

👩‍🍳 Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

🥣 Stovetop Method

  1. Sauté the aromatics – Heat a pot over medium heat and add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and seasonings – Stir in garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
  3. Pour in broth and split peas – Add broth, split peas, and ham hock (if using). Bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer until creamy – Reduce heat and let cook for 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Blend (optional) – For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender.
  6. Season and serve – Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and mix it back into the soup. Add salt and pepper to taste.

🐢 Slow Cooker / Crockpot Method

  1. Add all ingredients to the Crockpot.
  2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  3. Stir well before serving.

⚡ Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker Method

  1. Sauté the vegetables and garlic using the Sauté function.
  2. Add the split peas, broth, and seasonings.
  3. Seal the lid and pressure cook for 15 minutes.
  4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.

🌿 Variations & Customizations

🥓 Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham

  • Uses a ham bone or ham hock for a smoky flavor.
  • Slow-simmered for a rich and deep taste.

🥦 Vegetarian / Vegan Split Pea Soup

  • Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or potatoes for texture.

🔥 Smoky Bacon Split Pea Soup

  • Crisp bacon before sautéing the veggies for added depth.
  • Use smoked paprika to enhance the smoky taste.

For another savory & creamy dish, try this Spinach Artichoke Dip: Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe.

🥡 Storing, Freezing, and Reheating

Fridge Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezing Tips

  • Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
  • Store in portioned freezer bags for easy reheating.

Reheating

  • Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
  • If too thick, add a bit of water or broth to adjust consistency.

For best storage practices, see these soup storage guidelines.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?

No, split peas cook without soaking, unlike whole peas or beans.

2. Why is my split pea soup too thick?

Split peas naturally absorb liquid. Add extra broth or water to thin it out.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

4. What can I serve with split pea soup?

A bowl of creamy split pea soup garnished with fresh herbs, served with a side of crusty bread.
Rich and hearty split pea soup, made with tender peas, carrots, and smoky ham for the perfect cozy meal.

📌 Final Thoughts for the Split Pea Soup Recipe

This split pea soup recipe is the perfect comfort food, whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or meal prepping for the week. It’s hearty, nutritious, and full of flavor, plus it’s easy to customize!

Want more delicious homemade recipes? Try this Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe!

Have you tried this split pea soup? Let us know your favorite variations in the comments! 😊

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