How do you make split pea soup from scratch?

To make split pea soup from scratch, rinse 1 pound of dried green split peas. In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks in 2 tablespoons of oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the peas, 8 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, a smoked ham hock (optional for meaty flavor), 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 1-1.5 hours until peas break down into a thick soup. Remove ham hock, shred meat if using, and stir back in. Puree partially for texture. Serves 6-8. Adjust thickness with water if needed. Total time: 1.5-2 hours. (78 words)

Is split pea soup healthy?

Yes, split pea soup is nutritious and filling. One cup provides about 200 calories, 13g protein, 16g fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K from peas and veggies. It's low in fat (under 2g per serving without added meat) and supports heart health by lowering cholesterol thanks to soluble fiber. Peas are a plant-based protein source, making it suitable for vegetarians. Add lean ham for extra flavor without much fat. Pair with whole-grain bread for a balanced meal. Watch sodium from broth—use low-sodium versions. (92 words)

Can you make split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely, slow cooker split pea soup is easy and hands-off. Layer 1 pound rinsed split peas, 1 diced onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 8 cups broth, optional ham hock, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper in the cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until peas dissolve. Stir halfway if possible. Remove bay leaves and ham hock (shred and return meat). No sauté needed, but browning veggies first adds depth. Blends creamy without a blender. Freezes well in portions. (85 words)

How long does split pea soup last in the fridge?

Homemade split pea soup lasts 4-5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. It thickens as it cools—stir in water or broth when reheating to desired consistency. For longer storage, freeze in freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat on stovetop or microwave, stirring often. Check for off smells or mold before eating. Avoid leaving at room temp over 2 hours to prevent bacteria. Label with dates for freshness. (82 words)

What's the difference between green and yellow split pea soup?

Green split peas make a classic, earthy-flavored soup with a slightly sweeter, denser texture—ideal for traditional ham-based recipes. Yellow split peas are milder, slightly sweeter, and softer, yielding a brighter, smoother soup perfect for Indian-inspired curries or vegan versions with spices like cumin and turmeric. Both cook in 45-90 minutes and offer similar nutrition (high protein/fiber). Swap interchangeably but expect flavor and color variations. Green holds shape better; yellow purees creamier. Experiment for preferences. (84 words)

Split Pea Soup Recipe: Easy Classic Comfort Food

Name: Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 pound dried green split peas for creaminess and protein; – 2 tablespoons oil for sautéing vegetables; – 1 diced onion for savory base; – 2 sliced carrots for color and sweetness; – 2 chopped celery stalks for crunch and aromatic flavor; – 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth for liquid base; – 1 smoked ham hock (optional) for smoky meatiness; – 2 bay leaves for subtle herbal notes; – 1 teaspoon thyme for earthiness; – Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning

Ingredients

– 1 pound dried green split peas for creaminess and protein

– 2 tablespoons oil for sautéing vegetables

– 1 diced onion for savory base

– 2 sliced carrots for color and sweetness

– 2 chopped celery stalks for crunch and aromatic flavor

– 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth for liquid base

– 1 smoked ham hock (optional) for smoky meatiness

– 2 bay leaves for subtle herbal notes

– 1 teaspoon thyme for earthiness

– Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning

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Instructions

1-First Step: Rinse the Peas Place 1 pound dried green split peas in a colander and rinse under cold water until clear, about 2 minutes. This removes debris and reduces foam. For vegetarian split pea soup, proceed as is; meat lovers add the ham hock later.

2-Second Step: Sauté the Vegetables Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally. This mirepoix base builds flavor essential for classic split pea soup with ham. Vegans can use olive oil or water.

3-Third Step: Add Peas and Broth Stir in the rinsed split peas, 8 cups broth, optional smoked ham hock, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon thyme. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low simmer. Cover partially for 1-1.5 hours, stirring every 20 minutes. Peas will soften and thicken the soup naturally.

4-Fourth Step: Monitor and Adjust Check after 1 hour; peas should break down into a creamy texture. If too thick, add 1/2 cup water. For low-calorie versions, use vegetable broth only. Remove ham hock, bay leaves; shred meat from hock and return to pot for ham split pea soup.

5-Fifth Step: Blend for Texture Use an immersion blender to puree partially for rustic chunks, or fully for smooth. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or thyme. This step suits gluten-free diets perfectly.

6-Slow Cooker Variation for Split Pea Soup Recipe Crockpot: Layer all ingredients in a 6-quart crockpot without sautéing. Cook on low 8 hours or high 4-5 hours. No blender needed; stir at end. Ideal for working professionals or church groups prepping ahead.

7-Instant Pot Adaptation for Instant Pot Split Pea Soup: Sauté veggies on sauté mode 5 minutes. Add remaining items, seal, cook high pressure 15 minutes, natural release 15 minutes. Quick for busy parents.

8-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or croutons. Pairs great with crusty bread for potlucks. Total time: 1.5-2 hours stovetop, less in appliances. Stores well for travelers taking leftovers.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍵 For extra creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture
🥄 This soup tastes even better the next day – make it ahead and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors
🥩 Don’t skip the ham hock or bacon – they provide essential smoky flavor that makes this soup exceptional

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 220
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 25mg