When it comes to warm, nourishing comfort food, Split Pea Soup sits at the top of the list. Thick, creamy, and infused with savory flavor, this traditional soup has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you prefer it simmered with smoky ham, made vegetarian, or bulked up with root vegetables, split pea soup is a timeless recipe that delivers nutrition, warmth, and homemade comfort in every bowl.
This article covers everything you need to know—what split peas are, how to cook them perfectly, recipe instructions, variations, storage tips, and FAQs, plus SEO-friendly keywords woven throughout.
What Makes Split Pea Soup So Good?
Split pea soup is beloved for its:
● Rich flavor: slow-simmered peas create a naturally creamy base
● Perfect for meal prep: gets even better the next day
● High nutrition: fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals
● Budget-friendly ingredients: split peas cost very little
● Customizable and flexible: add ham, bacon, or make it vegetarian
Whether it’s winter or you’re simply craving something hearty and homemade, split pea soup is a classic that never disappoints.
What Are Split Peas?
Split peas are dried, peeled, and split field peas, typically available in green or yellow. They cook down into a creamy, thick consistency that gives this soup its signature texture.
Green vs. Yellow Split Peas
| Type | Flavor | Texture | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Split Peas | Slightly sweet | Creamy | Classic American split pea soup |
| Yellow Split Peas | Mild, earthy | Soft | Scandinavian & Middle Eastern soups |
Both types work beautifully, but green split peas are most commonly used for traditional homemade split pea soup.
Ingredients for Classic Split Pea Soup
Here’s everything you need for a flavorful, comforting batch:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups dried green split peas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1–2 cups diced cooked ham
- Ham bone or leftover ham hock for richness
- ½ teaspoon turmeric for extra color
- 1–2 potatoes, diced, for heartiness
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
This soup is incredibly flexible—use what you have and make it your own.
How to Make Split Pea Soup (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Rinse the split peas
Place them in a strainer and rinse thoroughly to remove any dust.
2. Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft—about 5–7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and spices
Stir in garlic, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf and cook 1 minute.
4. Add peas and broth
Pour in the split peas and broth. Add a ham hock if using.
5. Simmer low and slow
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the ham hock
Take out the bone, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
7. Adjust seasoning and texture
Add salt and pepper to taste. If too thick, add a little broth or water.
8. Serve warm
Top with parsley, croutons, or a swirl of cream if desired.
Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup
● Don’t soak the peas — no need; they cook quickly on their own.
● Stir often — split peas can stick to the bottom.
● Use a ham bone for authentic flavor.
● If too thick, add water a little at a time.
● If too thin, simmer uncovered to thicken.
● Use low heat for the creamiest results.
This soup only gets better after resting, so don’t rush it!
Split Pea Soup Variations
Split pea soup is incredibly adaptable. Try these delicious versions:
1. Split Pea Soup with Ham (Classic Version)
Add chopped ham or a ham hock while cooking. The smoky flavor elevates everything.
2. Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
Simply use vegetable broth and add:
- extra carrots
- diced potatoes
- a splash of coconut milk for creaminess
A beautiful plant-based option!
3. Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Add all ingredients to the slow cooker:
- Cook on Low for 8–10 hours
- or High for 4–5 hours
No stirring needed.
4. Instant Pot Split Pea Soup
Cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes with a natural release.
Great when you need dinner fast.
5. Curry Split Pea Soup
Add:
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- a handful of spinach
Warm, vibrant, and full of global flavor.
6. Split Pea Soup with Bacon
Sauté chopped bacon before adding the vegetables. The smoky fat adds a delicious twist.
7. Chunky Split Pea Soup
Blend only half of the soup for a mix of creamy and textured.
Is Split Pea Soup Healthy?
Absolutely!
Split peas are:
✔ High in plant protein
✔ Loaded with fiber (great for digestion & blood sugar control)
✔ Rich in iron, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins
✔ Low in fat
✔ Naturally gluten-free
Adding vegetables increases vitamins, and using broth boosts electrolytes. This soup is a great choice for weight management, heart health, and staying full longer.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Split Pea Soup
Refrigerator
Lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer
Cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Tip: Store in individual portions for quick meals.
Reheating
Split pea soup gets VERY thick after chilling.
Reheat gently and add:
- water
- broth
- or milk
to return it to soup consistency.
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Enjoy it with:
● Warm crusty bread
● Homemade cornbread
● Garlic toast
● A side salad
● Grilled cheese
Or keep it simple with cracked black pepper and fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is my split pea soup not getting soft?
Split peas can be old. Use a fresh bag and avoid adding salt early in cooking—it can toughen peas.
2. Can I make split pea soup without ham?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and add potatoes or extra vegetables.
3. How do I make the soup creamier?
Blend part of it with an immersion blender.
4. Do I need to soak split peas?
No. They cook fast and soften naturally.
5. How long does split pea soup last?
Up to 5 days refrigerated and 3 months frozen.
6. Can I use yellow split peas?
Yes! The flavor is slightly milder but just as delicious.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless, Comforting Recipe
Split Pea Soup is the kind of recipe every home cook should know. Affordable, filling, nutritious, and deeply satisfying, it’s a dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether you make it with smoky ham, keep it vegetarian, or add your own twist, this soup is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Print
Split Pea Soup: A Hearty, Comforting Classic Packed With Flavor
Ingredients
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450g) dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup diced smoked ham or ham hock
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery 5–6 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Stir in rinsed split peas, broth, water, ham, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and soup has thickened.
- Remove bay leaf. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially purée (optional).
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more pepper, salt, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
✨ Great with:
• Crusty bread or crackers
• A dollop of sour cream
• As a make-ahead freezer meal
💡 Slow cooker option: Add all ingredients and cook on LOW 7–8 hours or HIGH 4–5 hours.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 15 mins , Cook Time : 1 hr 15 mins , Total Time : 1 hr 30 mins , Servings : 6 , Calories : 290 per serving , Net Carbs: 42g , Fats: 6g , Protein: 20g