Split Pea Soup is a warm, comforting bowl packed with tender peas, soft vegetables, and smoky bits of ham or bacon that make every spoonful feel like a gentle hug. It’s thick, hearty, and just the right kind of creamy, even without any added cream. The green color is fresh and inviting, making it a perfect meal for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something simple and satisfying.
I love making Split Pea Soup because it’s easy to put together but feels like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. I usually let it simmer slowly so all the flavors have time to blend, and the peas break down into that wonderful smooth texture. A quick tip I’ve found helpful is to soak the peas before cooking—they soften faster and make the whole process go more smoothly. It’s a recipe that’s been in my family for ages, and every time I cook it, it brings back cozy memories of home.
My favorite way to enjoy Split Pea Soup is with a piece of crusty bread for dipping—and maybe a little sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It’s perfect for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner, especially on weekends when I want something easy but full of flavor. Whenever I make this soup, it seems to bring people together, whether it’s for a quiet night in or a friendly gathering around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split peas: These give the soup its creamy texture and earthy flavor. I recommend rinsing them well before cooking. If you can’t find green split peas, yellow peas work too—they’ll just give the soup a slightly different color and sweeter taste.
Ham or bacon: This adds a smoky depth. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and boost flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke. I often use leftover ham to keep things easy.
Vegetables: Onion, carrots, and celery form the classic flavor base. You can swap celery with fennel for a subtle licorice note, or add potatoes for extra thickness. Fresh garlic really brightens the soup.
Broth: Using good-quality vegetable or chicken broth is key since it carries the soup’s flavor. If you only have water, add extra herbs or bouillon cubes to enrich the taste.
How Do You Get That Perfect Creamy Texture Without It Being Too Thick or Runny?
Split peas naturally break down to create creaminess, but managing texture can be tricky. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Soak peas for 1-2 hours before cooking to speed up softening and avoid splitting too fast.
- Simmer the soup gently on low heat to prevent sticking or burning—and stir occasionally.
- Add broth or water little by little during cooking to keep your desired consistency.
- Use an immersion blender: blend all or part of the soup to get smooth creaminess while leaving some chunks for bite.
- Season near the end—you might need less salt if using ham or bacon.
Taking it slow lets the flavors deepen and the peas melt perfectly for a warm, cozy soup every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven – great for even heat and slow simmering without burning.
- Wooden spoon – sturdy for stirring thick soup and scraping the pot’s bottom gently.
- Immersion blender – lets you puree the soup right in the pot for creamy texture without extra dishes.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping veggies and any meat carefully and safely.
- Ladle – perfect for serving hot soup into bowls without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add smoked sausage or kielbasa instead of ham for a different smoky meat taste.
- Mix in chopped kale or spinach near the end for extra color and nutrients.
- Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a fresh zing that brightens the soup.
- Try adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for more body and a touch of sweetness.
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) dried split green peas, rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups (1.4 L) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1-2 cups water, as needed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz (115g) ham or bacon, diced (optional for smoky flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this delicious split pea soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 1 to 1.5 hours for simmering. It’s mostly hands-off cooking, so you can use that time to relax or prep sides. Total time needed is roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Split Peas:
Start by rinsing the dried split peas under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set them aside to drain.
2. Cook the Ham or Bacon (If Using):
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced ham or bacon and cook until browned and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the meat and set it aside for garnish later.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook them until they soften nicely, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add Peas and Liquids:
Add the rinsed split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme into the pot. Stir everything together well.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, keep the pot uncovered, and let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally to keep the peas from sticking to the bottom. If the soup gets too thick, add some water to adjust the consistency.
6. Blend the Soup (Optional):
Once the peas are soft and fully cooked, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your preferred texture. You can blend it fully for a smooth soup or only partially to keep some hearty chunks.
7. Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the crispy ham or bacon you set aside, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread on the side.
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of homemade split pea soup!
Can I Use Frozen Split Peas Instead of Dried?
Frozen split peas aren’t common, but if you find some, they’ll cook faster and won’t need rinsing or soaking. Just reduce the simmering time and add liquids gradually to avoid over-thickening.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Simply skip the ham or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke. The soup will still be delicious and hearty!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen the soup since it tends to thicken as it cools.
Can I Freeze Split Pea Soup?
Yes! Freeze fully cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding extra liquid if needed to reach your desired consistency.
