This hearty split pea soup is warm and comforting. Made with split peas, veggies, and a touch of seasoning, it’s perfect for chilly days when you need a big hug in a bowl!
Honestly, I can’t resist the smell of it bubbling away on the stove. It’s like my kitchen is getting a cozy winter makeover! I love serving it with crusty bread for a wholesome meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split Peas: The star of this soup! Green or yellow split peas work well. If you can’t find split peas, lentils can be a nice substitute, but they will change the texture a bit.
Broth: Vegetable broth is a great option for a vegetarian meal. If you like a richer flavor, chicken broth adds depth. You can even use homemade broth if you have it on hand!
Ham: Diced ham adds that smoky flavor, but you can skip this for a vegetarian version. A sprinkle of liquid smoke can help mimic that flavor without the meat.
Vegetables: While carrots and celery are classic, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or potatoes depending on what you have in your fridge.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Soup Consistency?
Getting the right consistency is crucial. As the split peas cook, they will naturally break down and thicken the soup. Remember to keep an eye on it while it’s simmering.
- If the soup gets too thick, simply stir in extra broth or water until you reach your desired thickness.
- If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to allow more evaporation.
- And don’t forget the important step: stirring occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’re sure to make a warm, comforting split pea soup that everyone will love!
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basics:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and picked over
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced cooked ham or smoked ham hock (optional)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious split pea soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 to 1.5 hours to cook, making it a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 2 hours. Perfect for a lazy weekend or when you want to enjoy a nice home-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and starting to look translucent. This is where the soup starts to get its flavor!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute. You want to make sure the garlic is fragrant but not burnt—just a lovely aromatic addition to your veggies!
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the star of the dish! Stir in the rinsed split peas, broth, bay leaf, thyme (if you decided to use it), and the diced ham or ham hock, if you’re including it. Mix everything together well.
4. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered or partially covered for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking at the bottom of the pot!
5. Adjust the Consistency:
As the soup cooks, the split peas will break down and thicken it. If you find it gets too thick for your taste, just add more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
6. Final Seasoning:
Remove the bay leaf and taste your soup. Add salt and black pepper to your liking. It’s always nice to adjust the seasoning at the end, so the flavors can shine!
7. Shred the Ham (if using):
If you used a ham hock, take it out, shred any meat that’s come off, and return it to the soup. This will give you even more delicious flavor in every bowl!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot split pea soup into bowls. Give it a little garnish with fresh dill or parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve it with some crusty bread on the side for the perfect meal!
This split pea soup is rich, hearty, and perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Can I Use Dried Green or Yellow Split Peas?
Absolutely! Both green and yellow split peas work wonderfully in this recipe. The flavor is similar, but green peas tend to have a slightly earthier taste. Just make sure to rinse and pick through them before using.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian! Just skip the ham or ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables for additional flavor.
What Can I Serve with Split Pea Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also serve it with crackers or a simple sandwich for a complete meal!