Cozy Split Pea Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

When the weather turns chilly and your bones start to feel like icicles, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of split pea soup. Imagine a creamy, vibrant green concoction that envelops you in a comforting embrace, with each spoonful bursting with earthy flavors and hints of smokiness from the ham. rich and creamy mushroom soup comforting roasted acorn squash soup It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making you feel all snuggly like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket on a lazy Sunday afternoon. classic French onion soup

This soup isn’t just about flavor; it’s also about memories. I remember my grandmother whipping up a pot on rainy days, filling her kitchen with an aroma so inviting that even the most stubborn family members would come running. soul warming meatball soup It was our go-to comfort food for gatherings, family game nights, and when life simply needed a little more warmth. Trust me; once you dive into this delicious bowl of split pea soup, you’ll be hooked!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delicious split pea soup is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients
  • The rich flavor profile will leave you craving more after every bite
  • Its vibrant green color makes it visually appealing to serve at any occasion
  • Plus, this versatile recipe allows for various toppings to suit everyone’s taste buds

I made this for dinner last week, and my partner couldn’t stop raving about it—he even asked if I could make it twice in one week!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

For more inspiration, check out this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Green Split Peas: These little legumes are the star of the show; rinse them well before cooking for best results.
  • Ham Bone or Ham Hock: Adds a savory depth; don’t skip it unless you’re going vegetarian!
  • Carrots: Sweet and colorful; chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
  • Celery: Provides crunch and freshness; use fresh stalks for maximum flavor.
  • Onion: A must-have aromatic; finely diced onions will enhance the overall taste.
  • Garlic: Use minced garlic to add that irresistible pungency to the mix.
  • Vegetable Broth or Water: The base of your soup; broth adds richness while water keeps it light. For more inspiration, check out this Sausage and Vegetable Soup recipe.
  • Bay Leaves: Infuses wonderful herbal notes during cooking; don’t forget to remove them before serving!
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables—carrots, celery, onion, and garlic—ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add some oil and sauté onions until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do the trick.

Add Split Peas and Ham Bone: Toss in your rinsed split peas along with the ham bone or hock. Stir everything together for about one minute to coat them with those delicious aromatics.

Pour in Broth or Water: Add enough vegetable broth or water to cover everything by about an inch—this ensures your peas cook perfectly without drying out.

Add Seasoning and Cook Down: Toss in bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 40-45 minutes until peas are tender.

Finish Up!: Remove the ham bone after cooking; shred any meat back into the soup if desired. Blend lightly if you prefer creamier texture or leave as is for chunkiness.

Now you’ve got yourself an incredible pot of split pea soup! Serve hot with crusty bread on the side—the perfect match!

You Must Know

  • Split pea soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
  • The rich aroma and creamy texture make it comforting any day
  • Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying those cozy vibes

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add split peas and broth for the best flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap carrots for parsnips or add herbs like thyme for extra depth in your soup.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh split peas as older ones may take longer to cook and affect texture
  • Soaking them overnight can also speed up cooking time significantly
  • Always taste as you go; seasoning can make or break your soup!

Cooking split pea soup reminds me of family gatherings, where everyone gathered around the table savoring every bite while sharing stories and laughter.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just combine ingredients and cook on low for six to eight hours.

What can I serve with split pea soup?

Crusty bread or a fresh salad complements this hearty soup perfectly.

Is split pea soup healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it a nutritious choice.

Print
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Split Pea Soup


  • Author: recipesnew
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x

Description

Split pea soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and nourishing. This creamy, vibrant green soup is bursting with earthy flavors and smoky undertones from ham, enveloping you in cozy nostalgia. Easy to prepare and made with simple ingredients, this classic recipe not only warms your body but also your heart, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
  • 1 ham hock
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Prep the Vegetables: Wash and chop carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
  2. 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
  3. 3. Add Split Peas and Ham: Stir in rinsed split peas and ham hock; coat with aromatics for one minute.
  4. 4. Pour in Broth: Add enough broth or water to cover ingredients by an inch.
  5. 5. Season and Simmer: Add bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes until peas are tender.
  6. 6. Finish Up: Remove the ham hock; shred any meat back into the soup if desired. Blend lightly for a creamier texture or leave chunky.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider swapping out carrots for parsnips or adding herbs like thyme. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days; reheat on the stove or microwave.

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