When the cool breeze of autumn rolls in, my thoughts naturally turn to comfort food. There’s something deeply satisfying about curling up with a warm bowl of Split Pea Soup, especially after a long day. The vibrant hues of the carrots and greens mixed with rich broth simmering on the stove create an inviting ambiance that instantly brings peace to any kitchen.
I discovered this recipe during one of those weekends spent cleaning out my pantry. With dried split peas and an array of vegetables in sight, I realized I was about to unveil a hidden gem in my cooking repertoire. Easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this soup has become my go-to for both cozy evenings and casual gatherings with friends.
Each spoonful is a celebration of simplicity, showcasing the magic that happens when you blend wholesome ingredients with a dash of love. So, whether you’re wanting to impress guests or simply escape the fast-food routine, this Split Pea Soup is here to offer a nourishing hug right when you need it most. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Split Pea Soup so comforting?
Comforting, there’s nothing quite like a hot bowl of split pea soup on a chilly day. Nutritious, packed with protein and fiber, it nourishes both body and soul. Easy to customize, throw in your favorite vegetables or proteins and adjust to your taste. Budget-friendly, utilizing pantry staples, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, crowd-pleaser, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. So, why not pair it with some crusty bread for a full experience?
Split Pea Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Extra virgin olive oil – adds a rich flavor while sautéing vegetables.
• Large carrots – bring natural sweetness and color to the soup.
• Large onion – enhances the soup’s aroma and depth.
• Celery stalks – contribute a subtle crunch and refreshing taste.
• Garlic cloves – infuse the soup with warmth and depth of flavor.
For the Seasoning
• Cumin – adds a warm, earthy note that complements the split peas.
• Vegetable broth – forms the heart of the soup, infusing all ingredients with flavor.
• Green split peas – the star ingredient, providing creaminess and heartiness to the dish.
• Bay leaf – imparts a subtle herbal aroma during cooking.
• Dried oregano – enhances the overall flavor profile with its robust notes.
• Dried thyme – adds a gentle, earthy taste that complements the peas.
• Salt – essential for bringing out the flavors in your soup.
• Black pepper – adds a touch of heat and complexity.
Optional Additional Ingredients
• Potatoes – if added, they make the soup even heartier and more filling.
• Spinach – a great way to sneak in some greens and nutrition.
This split pea soup will soon become a staple in your kitchen, ready to warm your heart on those chilly days!
How to Make Split Pea Soup
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Warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 large chopped carrots, 1 chopped onion, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Sauté for 5 minutes until they soften and begin to release their flavors.
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Add 4 grated garlic cloves and 1½ teaspoons of cumin to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring to combine and letting the spices mingle.
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Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth, then add 2 cups of dried green split peas, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well!
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Simmer by covering the pot and bringing it to a boil. Crack the lid slightly and reduce the heat, allowing the soup to simmer on medium-low until the peas are tender, about 30 to 45 minutes. Taste occasionally for doneness.
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Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if necessary. Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and to mix flavors.
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If desired, incorporate ¾ pound of peeled and bite-sized potatoes into the pot about 10 minutes after the split peas have been added. They’ll add heartiness to your soup!
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Blend 2 to 3 cups of the soup using an immersion blender until silky smooth. This step will give your soup a lovely creamy texture while keeping some rustic chunks.
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Taste and adjust the salt and consistency once you’ve blended the soup. Add more broth if you’d like a thinner soup to savor!
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Serve in warm bowls, garnished with fresh thyme and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for that gourmet touch.
Optional: A sprinkle of croutons can add a delightful crunch on top!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Split Pea Soup?
When you want to create a complete dining experience, pairing elegant sides with a warm bowl of soup can elevate your meal.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it soaks up the delicious broth while adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors meld beautifully with the soup, providing a comforting and indulgent accompaniment.
- Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness and slightly crispy texture enhance the earthy flavors of the split pea soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing brings gooey cheese and crunchy toast that your taste buds will love.
- Savory Quiche: With its flaky crust and rich filling, quiche can add a delicious, protein-packed side that rounds out your meal beautifully.
Serve your split pea soup alongside these delightful options, creating an inviting comfort food feast perfect for chilly evenings!
How to Store and Freeze Split Pea Soup
Room Temperature: Store any leftover soup in a cool place for up to 2 hours before refrigerating to avoid bacterial growth.
Fridge: Keep your split pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of broth for moisture and heat until steaming. Stir occasionally to maintain an even temperature.
Expert Tips for Split Pea Soup
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Soak Peas: Soaking your green split peas overnight can help them cook more evenly and reduce cooking time.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables for maximum flavor. Wilting or old produce can dampen the soup’s essence.
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Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low while simmering. A hard boil can cause the peas to break down too quickly, leading to a mushy soup.
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Adjust Consistency: If your split pea soup is thicker than preferred, gradually stir in additional broth until you reach your desired texture.
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Garnish Wisely: Enhance your serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Adjusting seasoning at this stage can elevate flavors significantly.
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Experiment! Don’t hesitate to customize your split pea soup by adding proteins like bacon or ham for a smoky twist, or throw in seasonal veggies for variety.
Split Pea Soup Variations
Feel free to mix things up and explore delightful variations that will make this split pea soup even more exciting!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley during the last few minutes of cooking for a fragrant twist.
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Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream to create a richer, velvety texture that elevates the soup.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for an unexpected heat that warms you from within.
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Meaty Additions: Toss in diced ham or crispy bacon for a savory, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the split peas. They bring a perfect balance to the dish.
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Vegetarian Boost: Incorporate diced bell peppers or zucchini to bring more vibrant colors and nutrients. Not only do they add texture, but they also enhance flavor.
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Lentil Swap: Use lentils in place of split peas for a quicker thin soup that still delivers on the nutrient front, offering a different texture and taste.
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Nutty Crunch: Top your bowl with roasted sunflower seeds or sliced almonds to add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
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Citrus Zest: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice just before serving for a bright, refreshing finish that elevates all the flavors.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Split Pea Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time on those bustling weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, onion, and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days before cooking. This prep not only enhances convenience but also preserves their freshness and flavor. You can also rinse and soak the split peas overnight to reduce cooking time by a good 20 minutes! When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the recipe as directed, adding the ingredients together. After cooking, this soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you’ll have comforting leftovers that are just as delicious!
Split Pea Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best split peas for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing split peas, opt for ones that are bright green, indicating freshness. Avoid any with dark spots or broken pieces, as these can affect the soup’s flavor and texture.
How long can I store leftover Split Pea Soup in the refrigerator?
Very! You can keep your split pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Can I freeze Split Pea Soup, and how should I do it?
Certainly! To freeze your split pea soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pot over low heat, adding extra broth for creaminess if desired.
What should I do if my Split Pea Soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, gradually add more vegetable broth or water while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. Simmer gently to warm it through without overcooking.
Is this Split Pea Soup safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for many dietary needs. However, if you or your guests have specific allergies, always double-check the ingredients, especially if you’re adding optional extras like ham or croutons.
How can I customize my Split Pea Soup?
The more the merrier! You can easily add different vegetables like sweet potatoes or spinach for extra nutrition, or if you enjoy deeper flavors, throw in some diced ham or bacon during cooking for a smoky twist. The possibilities are endless!
Savor Comfort with Homemade Split Pea Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 large chopped carrots, 1 chopped onion, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Sauté for 5 minutes until they soften.
- Add 4 grated garlic cloves and 1½ teaspoons of cumin to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring to combine.
- Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth, then add 2 cups of dried green split peas, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well!
- Simmer by covering the pot and bringing it to a boil. Crack the lid slightly and reduce the heat, allowing the soup to simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if necessary and stir occasionally.
- If desired, incorporate ¾ pound of peeled and bite-sized potatoes into the pot about 10 minutes after adding the split peas.
- Blend 2 to 3 cups of the soup using an immersion blender until silky smooth.
- Taste and adjust the salt and consistency as needed.
- Serve in warm bowls, garnished with fresh thyme and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.