This warm and comforting split pea soup is packed with flavor. Made with tender split peas, carrots, and herbs, it’s creamy and hearty, perfect for chilly days.
Honestly, there’s something magical about a big bowl of this soup. It warms you right up and fills your belly. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re in for a treat!
I love that it’s simple to whip up! Just toss everything in a pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the cozy smells. It’s a go-to for me when I need something quick and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both options work great. I usually opt for olive oil for its light flavor, but butter adds a wonderful richness. If you’re dairy-free, stick with the oil!
Split Peas: Green split peas give a lovely color and taste, but yellow split peas can be used if you prefer their slightly sweeter flavor. Just make sure they’re dried and rinsed.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor. If you’re vegetarian, go for veggie broth, or even water can work in a pinch, but the flavors won’t be as rich.
Bacon or Ham: This is optional but adds a nice smoky touch. If you’re vegetarian, consider using liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a similar flavor without meat.
Herbs: You can substitute thyme with other herbs like rosemary or sage. Fresh herbs bring more flavor, but dried ones work perfectly fine too!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Consistency in Split Pea Soup?
Getting the right texture is key! After simmering, you can choose to blend some or all of the soup based on your preference.
- For a creamier texture: Use an immersion blender in the pot until the soup reaches your desired smoothness.
- For a chunkier soup: Blend only half and leave the rest intact for some hearty bites.
- Adjust the thickness: If the soup is too thick after blending, simply add a little more broth or water and heat through.
Don’t forget to taste and season before serving! A sprinkle of salt and ground pepper will elevate the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Delicious Split Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (about 2 cups) dried green split peas, rinsed and picked through
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 4 oz diced ham or smoked bacon (adds smoky, meaty flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy split pea soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 1 to 1.5 hours of cooking time. This includes sautéing the veggies, simmering the soup, and getting everything nice and tender. Perfect for a leisurely cozy evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they soften up a bit—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally so they don’t stick to the bottom.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. You want to wait until it’s fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
3. Combine the Split Peas:
Now, add the rinsed split peas to the pot. Give everything a good stir to make sure the peas mix well with the vegetables.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Next up, pour in the broth and add the bay leaf and thyme. If you’re using ham or bacon, toss that in too! This is what gives the soup that comforting, hearty flavor.
5. Bring to a Boil:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, partially covered, for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally and enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!
6. Blend for Creaminess:
Once the peas are soft, remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup slightly to reach your desired creaminess. If you like some texture, just blend a little portion of it.
7. Seasoning:
Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t skip this step—it really brings out the flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with some toasted bread or crusty slices on the side for dipping. Enjoy every warm and flavorful bite!
This hearty and nourishing split pea soup is perfect for cooler days and makes a cozy meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Split Peas for This Recipe?
It’s best to use dried split peas, as frozen ones may have a different texture and cook time. However, if you have frozen split peas, ensure they’re fully thawed before using them and consider adjusting the simmer time accordingly for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any ham or bacon. You can add smoked paprika to infuse a smoky flavor without using meat. The soup will still be delicious and hearty!
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Absolutely! Split pea soup tastes even better the next day. You can prepare it a day ahead, cool it down, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
What Are Some Serving Suggestions?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh green salad. For added texture, top it with croutons or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits (if using). Enjoy it as a complete meal!