Hearty Split Pea Soup Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of split pea soup. Its creamy texture, hearty flavor, and ability to warm you from the inside out make it a classic dish loved by many. For centuries, this humble soup has been a staple in kitchens worldwide, from the homes of Dutch pea soup enthusiasts to cozy American dinner tables. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, split pea soup is the perfect recipe for chilly days or when you’re craving something wholesome and satisfying.

Now, let's walk through everything you need to create your own pot of delicious split pea soup!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a generous pot of split pea soup. This recipe serves about 6 people:

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
6 cups vegetable broth or chicken stock
1 bay leaf
1 smoked ham hock, diced ham, or smoked turkey pieces (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

A Note on Variations

If you'd like to make this soup vegetarian or vegan, simply skip the meat and use vegetable broth. The split peas alone provide plenty of flavor and make for a rich, protein-packed dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by prepping your fresh ingredients. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. These aromatic veggies form the base of your soup and will bring incredible depth to the flavor.

2. Sauté the Base

Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and thyme, stirring for another minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Soup

Add the split peas, broth, bay leaf, and ham hock (if using) into the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Cook Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the soup for 50–60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check the peas’ consistency. They should break down and become tender, creating a naturally creamy texture.

5. Season and Adjust

Once the peas are fully cooked, carefully remove the bay leaf and any meat bones if used. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. If you used a ham hock or smoked meat, shred any meat off the bone and return it to the soup.

Pro tip: If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup. But if you like it chunky, leave it as is!

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your warm split pea soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with crusty bread or a side of crackers for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Split Pea Soup

Thicker or Thinner?
If your soup is too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of water or broth until it reaches the desired consistency.
Freeze It!
Split pea soup freezes beautifully. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months. It makes for an easy meal on busy weeknights.
Go Smoky Without Meat
For a smoky flavor in a vegetarian version, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke.
Add More Veggies
Feel free to throw in some potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness, or add a handful of fresh spinach at the very end for a boost of greens.
Make It Creamier
Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or a splash of dairy-free milk for added richness.

The Perfect Bowl of Comfort

Split pea soup embodies everything we love about classic comfort food. It’s hearty, nourishing, and endlessly versatile. Whether you stick to tradition with ham or customize it to fit a plant-based diet, this soup is a winner every time. Gather your ingredients, simmer away, and enjoy the simple pleasure of this timeless dish.

Happy cooking!

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