homemade split pea soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
homemade split pea soup recipe
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The Best homemade split pea soup recipe

I’ve been making this homemade split pea soup recipe for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. My kids love it because it’s comforting and familiar, while my husband appreciates its simplicity and nutritional value.

As for me, I enjoy the process of cooking it, as it allows me to relax and unwind after a long day. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic always fills our kitchen with a warm, inviting scent that makes everyone’s mouth water.

This soup is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that brings us all together. Whether we’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or as part of a family gathering, split pea soup never fails to satisfy our hunger and nourish our souls.

Homemade Split Pea Soup

Homemade Split Pea Soup

4.6 from 1447 votes

This hearty and comforting homemade split pea soup is perfect for a cozy dinner. It is filled with tender split peas, savory vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hr 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb split peas
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup water
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

For Garnish

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the split peas under cold water and pick out any debris or stones.
2In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
4Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
5Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
6Add the split peas, vegetable broth, water, bay leaf, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
7Stir well to combine.
8Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
9Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently.
10Stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
11Cook for about 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
12If the soup becomes too thick, thin it out with a bit more water.
13Once the soup is cooked, remove the bay leaf.
14Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or blend it in batches in a regular blender.
15Be careful when blending hot liquids.
16If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can mash some of the peas with a potato masher instead of blending.
17Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
18Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
19Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 20g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother soup, blend until completely smooth. For a chunkier soup, mash some of the peas with a potato masher instead of blending. You can also add diced ham or bacon for a meatier version.

This homemade split pea soup recipe has become an integral part of our family’s culinary traditions.

Not only is it easy to prepare and customize according to our tastes, but its comforting warmth also makes it perfect for any occasion – whether we’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a quiet night at home.

I love how versatile this recipe is; we often serve it as part of a cozy dinner or even as a side dish at family gatherings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Soup

Q: What type of peas are used in this recipe?

The recipe uses split green peas, which are smaller and more easily digestible than whole peas.

Q: Can I use canned peas instead of fresh ones?

While you can use canned peas as a substitute, the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Fresh peas offer a sweeter taste and firmer texture that’s hard to replicate with canned alternatives.

Q: How long does the soup need to simmer before it’s ready?

The cooking time will depend on the strength of your stovetop or slow cooker. Typically, you’ll want to simmer the soup for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the peas to become tender.

Q: Can I add any other ingredients to make the soup more interesting?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Some popular additions include diced carrots, celery, or potatoes, as well as herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly, but you can easily modify it to suit vegan dietary needs by substituting the chicken broth with a plant-based alternative.

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