Split pea soup is a warm and comforting dish made with split peas, carrots, and onions. This simple recipe is perfect for chilly days, bringing smiles with every spoonful!
I enjoy making this soup because it cooks up easily in one pot! Plus, it’s great for leftovers. You’ll find it gets better the next day—just like a good friend! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for sautéing. If you need alternatives, consider canola oil or butter for added flavor.
Onion: Essential for depth. Yellow onions are commonly used, but shallots can add a sweet twist. They both create a wonderful flavor base!
Vegetables (Carrots & Celery): These add sweetness and texture. You can swap in parsnips or bell peppers if you have them on hand.
Dried Green Split Peas: This is the star! They break down beautifully into a thick soup. If you can’t find green split peas, yellow ones are a good substitute, but the color will differ.
Broth: Choose vegetable or chicken broth to enhance the flavor. Homemade is best, but low-sodium store-bought works just fine!
Garnishes: While croutons add crunch, feel free to use bacon bits or crispy shallots for different textures.
How Do I Make Sure My Split Peas Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking split peas takes patience, but it’s straightforward! Here are steps to ensure they are tender and flavorful:
- Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any dust or debris.
- Soaking isn’t necessary, but if you prefer, soak them for a few hours to speed up the cooking time.
- Cook the peas in plenty of broth; they’ll absorb a lot of liquid as they cook.
- Keep stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot.
- Simmer until they’re very tender, and if they seem too thick, just add a little more broth or water.
Checking for doneness is key — they should be soft enough to mash between your fingers. Enjoy your comforting bowl of split pea soup!
How to Make Delicious Split Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 pound (about 2 cups) dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Croutons
- A dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Additional black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty split pea soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 60-90 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend some time chopping and sautéing, and then just let it simmer until it’s perfectly thick and flavorful. Enjoy the cozy smell that fills your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened—this should take about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and start to smell delightful!
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook everything together for another minute until fragrant. This step ensures that the flavors blend beautifully and fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
3. Combine the Split Peas and Broth:
Now, add the rinsed green split peas and broth to your pot. Give everything a good stir so that the peas are well combined with the vegetables and broth.
4. Bring to a Boil and Simmer:
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered. Cook until the split peas are very tender and the soup thickens—this usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom.
5. Final Touches:
Once the peas are soft, remove and discard the bay leaf and any thyme sprigs if you used fresh thyme. If you like a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, or leave it chunky if that’s your preference. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and feel free to garnish with croutons, a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme and black pepper. Enjoy the warm soup with some toasted bread on the side for a perfect meal!
This nourishing split pea soup has a lovely rustic texture, packed with flavor and heartiness to warm your soul. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Other Types of Beans or Peas?
Yes! While the recipe calls for green split peas, you can substitute yellow split peas or even lentils. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
How Can I Thicken My Soup More?
If you’d like a thicker soup, you can blend a larger portion with an immersion blender or add an extra half cup of dried split peas during cooking. Just be sure to adjust the broth accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.
What Can I Serve with Split Pea Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a grain salad or quinoa dish!
