Split Pea Soup Recipe

This Split Pea Soup Recipe is the perfect cozy dish for any occasion. With its thick, creamy texture and a rich blend of flavors from fresh veggies, split peas, and tender chicken, this soup is more than just comfort food; it’s a nutritious powerhouse. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together in just over an hour, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh herbs creates a depth of flavor that elevates this simple dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup is healthy without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or pair it with hearty buttered bread for a satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make your Split Pea Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution while cooking, preventing sticking or burning.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, enhancing your cooking experience.
• Blender (optional): Helps achieve that smooth consistency by pureeing part of the soup, if desired.

Ingredients

This Split Pea Soup Recipe is thick, creamy, and packed with veggies, split peas, and tender chicken chicken ham—humble-looking but bursting with flavor!

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups finely diced onion (2 medium onions)
– 1 cup finely diced carrot (2 to 3 large carrots)
– 1 cup finely diced celery (3 to 4 stalks)
– Salt and pepper
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic (4 cloves)
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1-1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed; old split peas may not soften)
– 2 small bay leaves (or 1 large)
– 1 meaty chicken chicken ham bone (or chicken chicken ham hocks, plus more chicken chicken ham if desired)
– 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
– Hearty buttered bread (for serving)

How to Make Split Pea Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large (5.5 quart or larger) heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil. Add onion, carrot, celery, and salt/pepper to taste (I add 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Cook until veggies are softened and onion is beginning to turn golden, about 5–8 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, red pepper flakes, and cook while stirring constantly for about 1 minute. Add rinsed split peas and mix through.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken chicken ham bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so the peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Cook until peas are soft and soup has thickened to your desired consistency. If needed, add more broth if it becomes too thick.

Step 3: Shred Chicken

When ready to serve, remove the chicken chicken ham bone. Shred off as much meat as possible from the bone. Discard any bones or excess fat. Return shredded chicken back into the soup. Remove bay leaves before blending if desired.

Step 4: Blend Soup

Remove about two cups of soup from the pot and blend until completely smooth using a blender. Return blended puree back into the soup pot and mix thoroughly. Taste your soup again; season with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Serve hot with hearty buttered bread along with a sprinkle of pepper and fresh thyme if using. Enjoy!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup Recipe

Serving split pea soup is a delightful experience, as its creamy texture and hearty flavor can be complemented in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Hearty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor pairs well with the soup’s richness.
• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the thick soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a savory twist that enhances the overall taste.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle adds freshness and color.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves: Enhances the herbal notes in the soup.
• Chives: Offers a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Lightens up the meal with crisp greens and a vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Adds a creamy contrast with crunchy croutons.

How to Perfect Split Pea Soup Recipe

Perfecting your split pea soup involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide better flavor than dried or canned options.
• Rinse Split Peas Thoroughly: This removes any debris and helps them cook more evenly.
• Adjust Consistency Gradually: If the soup thickens too much, add broth slowly until you reach your desired thickness.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a smooth texture, making it even more enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your split pea soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic choice that melts beautifully with each spoonful of soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for dunking!
4. Cornbread Muffins: Their sweet crumb contrasts nicely with the savory soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad that complements the flavors of split pea perfectly.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill them with rice and veggies for an extra hearty side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make small errors when preparing a split pea soup recipe that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften properly during cooking. Always check the expiration date and use fresh split peas for the best results.
• Not seasoning adequately: A lack of salt or spices can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings, especially towards the end of cooking.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending part of the soup adds creaminess and enhances texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s key to achieving a thick, satisfying consistency.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Aim for a balance where they are tender but still maintain some structure.
• Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality broth can impact flavor significantly. Opt for reduced-sodium chicken broth or homemade broth for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Split Pea Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup freezes well for up to 3 months; just leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.

Reheating Split Pea Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat until warm, about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the split pea soup recipe that might help you in your cooking journey.

Can I make this Split Pea Soup Recipe vegetarian?

You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the chicken ingredients and using vegetable broth instead. Add extra vegetables for flavor!

How long does this Split Pea Soup Recipe take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 90 minutes, including preparation and simmering time.

What can I serve with my Split Pea Soup Recipe?

Hearty buttered bread pairs wonderfully with this soup, providing a delicious contrast to its creamy texture.

How do I know when split peas are done cooking?

The peas should be soft and have broken apart, creating a thick consistency in your soup. If they still feel hard, continue simmering until tender.

Can I customize my Split Pea Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like potatoes or kale, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This split pea soup recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can modify it based on your favorite ingredients or dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty dinner option or need meal prep ideas, this dish will surely satisfy your cravings!