Split pea soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days! Made with split peas, onions, and carrots, it’s both filling and comforting.
There’s something so cozy about a bowl of this soup. It warms you up and makes your kitchen smell amazing while simmering! I love serving it with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split Peas: Dry green split peas are the star here, but yellow split peas can work too! They give a slightly different color and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, lentils can also be used, but they’ll cook faster, so adjust cooking time.
Vegetable Broth: For a stronger flavor, I recommend using vegetable broth. However, water is perfectly fine if that’s all you have. You can also use chicken broth if meat isn’t a concern.
Onions and Garlic: These add a lovely base flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic or onions, garlic powder and onion powder can work in a pinch!
Carrots and Celery: These add sweetness and depth. Feel free to substitute with bell peppers or extra veggies you have on hand. Just be cautious with watery veggies as they can change the soup’s consistency.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Soup?
Getting the right texture for split pea soup can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Cook the peas until they are soft and start to break apart, around 45-60 minutes. This is key to thickening the soup naturally.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to purée part of it. Blend until you reach the desired consistency.
- For a chunkier version, skip the blending entirely! Just give it a good stir.
No matter the choice, taste and adjust the seasonings as you go to make it perfect for you!
Split Pea Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Croutons for garnish (optional)
- Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas, added near the end of cooking for color and texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 60 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. You’ll spend a bit of time chopping the veggies, but the cooking mostly happens hands-off. Perfect for a cozy day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender and the onion is translucent. This will create a lovely base flavor for your soup!
2. Add Split Peas and Broth:
Next, toss in the rinsed split peas, along with the vegetable broth or water. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme if you’re using it. Give everything a good stir to combine, ensuring the split peas are submerged in the liquid.
3. Bring to a Boil and Simmer:
Increase the heat to bring your mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. Cook for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are soft and start breaking apart. You’ll love the warm, cozy smell filling your kitchen!
4. Blend for Texture:
Once your peas are nice and tender, remove the bay leaf. If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to purée part or all of the soup, depending on your desired texture. If you enjoy a chunkier soup, just skip this step!
5. Add Frozen Peas:
If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in now and let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes until they’re warmed through and add a pop of green color!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and croutons if you like. Enjoy your delicious split pea soup with some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal!
Can I Use Dried Lentils Instead of Split Peas?
Yes, you can substitute dried lentils in this recipe! Just note that lentils will cook faster than split peas, so reduce the cooking time to about 30-40 minutes, and check for tenderness earlier.
How Should I Store Leftover Split Pea Soup?
Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might need to add a little water or broth to loosen it up as it thickens when chilled.
Can I Freeze Split Pea Soup?
Absolutely! Split pea soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Split Pea Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a sandwich! If you want a heartier meal, try serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or some homemade croutons for added crunch!
