Introduction

This classic Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a hearty and nutritious meal that comes together easily. The rich, savory flavor develops beautifully as it simmers, making it a perfect make-ahead dish. For another comforting side, try these Sweet Potato Biscuits Recipe.

Ingredients

This comforting Split Pea Soup comes together with humble ingredients that transform into a velvety, savory bowl of goodness, perfect for chilly days.

• 1 lb dried split peas
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 ham hock (optional, for meaty flavor)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 45 minutes

Context: This Split Pea Soup recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great choice for a quick and hearty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Rinse 1 pound of dried split peas thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer, removing any debris. Chop 1 large onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks into small, uniform pieces. Mince 2 cloves of garlic.

Tip: Uniformly chopped vegetables ensure even cooking and a smoother texture in your Split Pea Soup.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful foundation for your Split Pea Soup.

Step 3 — Add Liquids and Peas

Pour in 8 cups of vegetable or ham broth and add the rinsed split peas. For a richer flavor, you can add a leftover ham bone or 1 cup of diced ham at this stage.

Tip: Using a high-quality, low-sodium broth allows you to better control the final seasoning of your soup.

Step 4 — Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a rolling boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently.

A gentle simmer, with small bubbles occasionally breaking the surface, is ideal for cooking the peas without burning the bottom.

Step 5 — Cook Until Peas Are Tender

Let the Split Pea Soup simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup is ready when the peas have completely broken down and are very soft.

Doneness cue: The soup should have a thick, porridge-like consistency. If it’s too thick, you can thin it with a bit more broth or water.

Step 6 — Season and Finalize

Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. If you used a ham bone, remove it from the pot, shred any meat, and return the meat to the soup.

For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup, but leaving some texture is traditional.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Let the Split Pea Soup stand for 10–15 minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or croutons if desired. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Split Pea Soup Nutrition Facts

Calories	230
Protein	16g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	1.5g
Fiber	16g
Sodium	580mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey bacon instead of ham hock — Smoky flavor with less saturated fat and sodium.
• Lentils instead of split peas — Lower-carb option with a firmer texture and earthy taste.
• Coconut milk instead of cream — Creamy, dairy-free alternative with a subtle tropical note.
• Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth — Naturally gluten-free and lower in sodium when unsalted.
• Sweet potatoes instead of carrots — Adds natural sweetness and more fiber with lower glycemic impact.
• Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan — Cheesy, savory flavor without dairy, perfect for vegan Split Pea Soup.
• Cauliflower rice instead of potatoes — Reduces carbs while adding bulk and a mild, nutty flavor.
• Smoked paprika instead of liquid smoke — Enhances smokiness without additives or excess sodium.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this hearty Split Pea Soup with crusty bread or warm cornbread for a satisfying meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.
• Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or as a comforting lunch option.
• Garnish with croutons, fresh herbs, or a swirl of cream for an elegant presentation.
• Accompany with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats and sharp cheeses.
• Ideal for meal prep—this Split Pea Soup freezes beautifully for future quick meals.

For a complete dining experience, consider serving this classic Split Pea Soup in deep bowls to retain heat and enhance its comforting aroma.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using old, hard split peas that won’t soften. Fix: Check for a recent harvest date and store them in a cool, dark place to ensure they cook properly.
• Mistake: Not rinsing split peas before cooking. Fix: Always rinse them thoroughly to remove any dust or debris that can affect the soup’s flavor and texture.
• Mistake: Adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar too early. Fix: Stir these in at the end of cooking to prevent the peas from remaining tough.
• Mistake: Over-salting the broth before the soup reduces. Fix: Season gradually and taste at the end, as the liquid concentrates and saltiness intensifies.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to sauté aromatics like onions and garlic. Fix: Sauté them first to build a flavorful foundation, which deepens the overall taste of the Split Pea Soup.
• Mistake: Cooking at a rapid boil instead of a gentle simmer. Fix: Maintain a low simmer to prevent the peas from breaking down too much and becoming mushy.
• Mistake: Using insufficient liquid, causing the soup to become too thick. Fix: Start with the recommended water or broth ratio and add more as needed during cooking.
• Mistake: Not letting the soup rest before serving. Fix: Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes off the heat so the flavors meld and the texture improves.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Split Pea Soup quickly, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

For best quality, label your containers with the date so you can enjoy your homemade Split Pea Soup while it’s at its freshest.

Conclusion

This classic Split Pea Soup is a comforting, hearty meal perfect for chilly days. It’s simple to prepare and delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and share your thoughts in the comments below! For more satisfying soup recipes, try this Beef Barley Soup or this Potato Leek Soup.

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FAQs

Can I make Split Pea Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily make this Split Pea Soup in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. This method develops deep flavor and requires minimal hands-on time.

How can I thicken my Split Pea Soup if it’s too thin?

If your Split Pea Soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken. You can also use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot, which will naturally thicken the consistency.

How long does homemade Split Pea Soup last in the refrigerator?

Homemade Split Pea Soup will last for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve after a day. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.