This cozy split pea soup is perfect for chilly days! Made with hearty split peas, veggies, and a hint of smoky flavor, it warms you up from the inside out.
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of this soup bubbling on the stove. I like to serve it with crusty bread for dipping—so good! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split Peas: Dried green split peas are the star of this soup, offering creamy texture and great flavor. You can substitute with yellow split peas if you prefer a different color. Just remember that yellow peas might be a bit sweeter!
Broth: I typically use vegetable broth for a lighter soup, but chicken broth is a fantastic choice for added flavor. If you want a vegan option, stick with vegetable broth or water, and just add more seasoning!
Ham Hock: Optional for that smoky touch! If you want a vegetarian version, just skip it or add some smoked paprika for a similar flavor kick. Chopped bacon or sausage can work as alternatives too, but they’ll change the soup’s character a bit.
Vegetables: The trio of onion, carrot, and celery is called mirepoix, which gives depth to your soup. You can add other veggies like bell peppers, potatoes, or even spinach for extra nutrition!
How Do I Ensure My Soup is Super Tasty?
The key to flavorful split pea soup lies in how you prepare your base. Start by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil or butter. This step develops the soup’s flavor. Don’t rush it; let them soften and sweeten for maximum taste.
- Heat your oil or butter before adding the veggies.
- Stir frequently! This prevents sticking and burning.
- Don’t forget to season as you go—add a pinch of salt while sautéing to bring out the veggie flavors.
After that, let the soup simmer low and slow. This will break down the split peas and meld all those wonderful flavors together. Enjoy the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!
How to Make Hearty Split Pea Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (about 2 cups) dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 smoked ham hock or 6 oz diced ham for smoky flavor
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
- Croutons, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious split pea soup will take about 15 minutes to prep and 1 to 1.5 hours to cook. The longer simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a warm and comforting bowl of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant. This is where the flavor begins to build!
2. Add Garlic and Optional Meat:
Now, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it gives off a yummy aroma. If you’re using a ham hock or diced ham, toss it into the pot at this point. The smoky flavor will make your soup even more delightful!
3. Combine Split Peas and Broth:
Add the rinsed split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where it all starts coming together!
4. Bring to a Boil:
Turn up the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the peas are soft and breaking down.
5. Finish Up:
After simmering, remove the bay leaf and ham hock (if you used one). If you want to add any shredded ham from the hock, do it now! Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup to your desired consistency—smooth or chunky, it’s up to you!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, plus some crunchy croutons on top. Serve it hot with some crusty bread for a perfect meal!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of homemade split pea soup! It’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. 😊
Can I Use Dried Split Peas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Dried split peas are the traditional choice for split pea soup, providing a better texture and flavor. Just make sure to rinse and sort them before use, as mentioned in the recipe.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover split pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, split pea soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove before serving.
What If I Don’t Have a Ham Hock?
No worries! You can skip the ham hock and still have a delicious soup. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika, or you can use regular diced ham or even bacon as an alternative.