Split Pea Soup Recipe | Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Homemade Comfort Food
Introduction
Comfort food has an incredible way of warming both body and soul, and few dishes capture that feeling better than a bowl of homemade split pea soup. The moment the aroma fills the kitchen, it invites a sense of nostalgia and calm. Many people remember it as a meal that was passed down from a parent or grandparent who always knew how to make something simple taste extraordinary.
Split pea soup is more than just a hearty meal. It is a wholesome and budget friendly recipe that delivers a deep, savory flavor while offering impressive nutritional benefits. Made primarily from dried peas, this soup is rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals that support good health. It is also an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a satisfying meal from inexpensive pantry staples.
The beauty of split pea soup lies in its simplicity. A handful of humble ingredients transforms into something filling, flavorful, and nourishing. The creamy texture of the peas, the aroma of slow cooked vegetables, and the subtle smoky undertones from added seasoning create a dish that is both rustic and refined. Whether served on a chilly evening or enjoyed as part of a weekday meal prep plan, split pea soup never fails to satisfy.
Home cooks love it for its flexibility. It can be kept completely vegetarian or enriched with meat for added depth. It pairs beautifully with fresh bread or a crisp green salad, making it a complete and comforting meal. The recipe below walks you through every step in creating the perfect pot of split pea soup that tastes just as good as it smells.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients for split pea soup are simple and easy to find. Each one contributes to the overall richness and heartiness of the dish. Below is a table listing what you will need along with the approximate calorie count per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Dried split peas | 2 cups | 480 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Carrots (diced) | 2 medium | 50 |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks | 20 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Vegetable or chicken broth | 6 cups | 60 |
| Bay leaf | 1 | 0 |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | 2 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Cooked ham or smoked turkey (optional) | 1 cup | 200 |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons | 4 |
Total calories per serving (approx.): 250 to 300 depending on ingredients and serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the split peas
Begin by rinsing the split peas thoroughly under cool water. Remove any small stones or debris that may be mixed in. Soaking is optional, but if you prefer a slightly creamier texture and shorter cooking time, soak them for one hour in warm water. - Sauté the aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they soften and become slightly golden. The aroma at this stage sets the foundation for the entire dish.You’ll also want to try Thai Chicken Soup for another tasty option. - Add the garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about one minute. Be careful not to let it burn. The garlic releases its full flavor when cooked gently, blending beautifully with the sweetness of the onions and carrots. - Incorporate the peas and liquid
Add the rinsed split peas to the pot and pour in the broth. Stir well to combine. If you enjoy a thicker texture, use less broth; for a lighter consistency, add a little more liquid. - Season and simmer
Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot partially and cook for about 60 to 70 minutes, stirring occasionally. The peas will slowly break down and give the soup its creamy consistency. - Optional addition of meat
If you are using cooked ham or smoked turkey, add it about halfway through cooking. This allows the meat to infuse the soup with a subtle smoky flavor without overpowering the peas. - Adjust the texture
Once the peas are fully tender, use a spoon to mash some of them against the side of the pot. For an even smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender. Be sure not to over blend; the soup should retain a bit of texture for a rustic finish. - Final seasoning
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf and stir in chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Split pea soup is highly adaptable, making it a wonderful base for creative variations.
- Make it vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth and skipping the meat. Add extra carrots or diced potatoes for more texture.
- Enhance flavor with a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice just before serving. The slight acidity brightens the soup.
- Add more vegetables such as leeks, spinach, or kale. They bring color, nutrients, and a delicate earthiness.
- Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin for a subtle twist.
- For a creamy finish, stir in a small amount of coconut milk or cream after cooking.
Nutritional Information
Split pea soup is known for its impressive nutritional profile. It offers a balanced mix of plant based protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
Split peas are a great source of iron, magnesium, and potassium. They support digestive health, help stabilize blood sugar, and keep you feeling full longer. Including this soup in your meal plan is an easy way to enjoy wholesome comfort food while supporting balanced nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Split pea soup tastes wonderful on its own, but it can be elevated with a few thoughtful additions. Serve it with crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up every bit of flavor. A side of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
For a more complete meal, pair the soup with a simple sandwich such as grilled cheese or roasted vegetable panini. You can also top the soup with homemade croutons, crispy bacon bits, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added texture and flavor.
If you plan to serve it as part of a dinner menu, consider pairing it with a roasted chicken or baked salmon dish. The soup works equally well as a starter or main course, depending on portion size. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for several weeks. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to blend.
Split Pea Soup Recipe | Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Homemade Comfort Food
Course: Blog6
servings15
minutes1
minute280
kcalIngredients
2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions
- Prepare the peas
- Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cool running water. Remove any debris or damaged peas.
- Cook the vegetables
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften and release a pleasant aroma, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to enhance the flavor.
- Combine peas and broth
- Add the split peas to the pot, then pour in the broth. Stir to combine.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip the meat.
To make the soup creamier, blend half of it and then mix it back into the pot.
Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar before serving to brighten the flavor.
FAQs About Split Pea Soup
1. Can I use green or yellow split peas?
Yes, both varieties work perfectly. Green peas have a slightly sweeter flavor, while yellow peas create a milder, earthier taste.
2. Why did my soup turn too thick?
Split peas absorb a lot of liquid as they cook. Add a bit of warm water or broth to loosen the consistency until it reaches your preference.
3. How long does it take for split peas to soften?
On average, they take about one hour. Older peas may take longer, so keep simmering until they are tender.
4. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for about eight hours or on high for four to five hours. The result is rich and flavorful.
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Cool the soup before storing it in airtight containers. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Few meals capture the warmth of home quite like a bowl of split pea soup. It is nourishing, affordable, and easy to prepare, yet its flavor feels special every single time. Each spoonful carries the comfort of slow cooked vegetables, the creamy heartiness of peas, and the satisfaction of a meal made with care. Whether you make it for a cozy night in or as a make ahead lunch, this classic recipe never disappoints.
