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Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe

BySoha

A bowl of split pea soup represents true homemade comfort. Slow-simmered until creamy and full of depth, it blends tender peas, savory vegetables, and aromatic herbs into a dish that feels both hearty and nourishing. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy lunch or a wholesome dinner, this classic split pea soup recipe captures timeless flavor with minimal effort and simple ingredients.

Ingredients List

  • 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup diced ham or smoked turkey (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Classic Split Pea Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Peas and Broth

Add split peas, broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The peas should soften completely and thicken the broth.

Step 4: Add Ham or Turkey (Optional)

If using meat, stir in diced ham or smoked turkey during the last 20 minutes of cooking to infuse a rich, smoky flavor.

Step 5: Adjust Texture and Seasoning

Remove the bay leaf. For a smoother consistency, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Cook Time

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour

Servings

Serves 6

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Fiber: 14g
  • Sodium: 620mg

Storage Instructions

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much.

Suggestions

Serve the soup with freshly baked bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a richer taste, add a small piece of ham bone or smoked turkey leg while simmering. To keep it vegetarian, use vegetable broth and skip the meat altogether.

Seasonal Relevance

Split pea soup is ideal for colder months when you crave something hearty and warming. It is also perfect for early spring, using dried peas from winter stores while still feeling fresh and nourishing. The recipe fits well into both family meals and quiet, comforting dinners.

Conclusion

Classic split pea soup delivers timeless flavor through simplicity. With just a few humble ingredients and patient simmering, you create a dish that feels deeply satisfying. Rich, smooth, and full of natural sweetness from the peas and vegetables, this soup proves that comfort can come from the simplest combinations.

Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
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Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

1

minute
Calories

1740

kcal
Total time

1

minute

Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe combines tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and herbs simmered to perfection for a creamy, comforting bowl of homemade goodness. Simple, nourishing, and full of hearty flavor, it’s an ideal recipe for cold days or anytime you crave a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 cup diced ham or smoked turkey (optional)

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Add split peas, broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil.
  • Lower heat and simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally until peas are soft and soup thickens.
  • Add diced ham or turkey in the last 20 minutes if desired.
  • Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and blend part of the soup for a smoother texture if preferred.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • No need to soak split peas before cooking.
  • Add a ham bone or smoked turkey leg while simmering for a deeper flavor.
  • Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently with a little broth or water if the soup thickens after storage.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the peas are soft.

Q2: Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?
No soaking is required. Split peas cook quickly compared to other legumes and soften beautifully during simmering.

Q3: Can I freeze split pea soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, portion it into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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