Green Split Soup Recipe

Green Split Soup, with its hearty and comforting nature, is a classic dish that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly evening or simply need a nutritious soup to add to your weekly rotation, green split pea soup is an excellent choice. This dish has been a staple in many homes for generations, celebrated for its simplicity and its rich, earthy flavor. What’s even better is how adaptable it is – you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, or even make it vegetarian or meat-heavy depending on your dietary needs.

The beauty of this soup lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The green split peas cook down into a smooth, velvety consistency, while the vegetables and seasonings enhance the soup’s natural earthiness. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that gets better as it sits, so it’s perfect for leftovers or meal prep!

Let’s dive right into how to make this classic soup from scratch.

Green Split Soup Recipe

This traditional recipe is simple, nourishing, and full of flavor. Below, you’ll find everything you need to make your own delicious green split soup, from the ingredients to the cooking instructions, as well as some expert tips to make sure your soup is just perfect every time.

Ingredients Needed

The following ingredients are essential for creating a delicious pot of green split pea soup. Some of them might be pantry staples you already have, and others are likely to be fresh additions from your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Green Split Peas: The star of the soup! These dried peas are high in protein and fiber and provide the soup with its signature texture and depth.
• Olive Oil (or butter, depending on preference): Used for sautéing the veggies and adding a bit of richness.
• Onion: Adds a savory base flavor that complements the peas.
• Carrots: Their sweetness balances the earthiness of the peas and adds a nice pop of color.
• Celery: Adds a refreshing, crisp taste to the soup.
• Garlic: A necessary addition for aroma and depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth: The liquid base of the soup. If you want to keep the soup vegetarian, vegetable broth works best.
• Bay Leaves: For a subtle, herbal depth of flavor.
• Thyme: A classic herb that pairs perfectly with peas and adds earthy, slightly floral notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, but remember, broth usually contains salt, so adjust accordingly.
• Ham Bone or Ham Hock (optional): For added flavor, especially if you want a meatier soup with a smoky edge.
• Lemon Juice (optional, but highly recommended): A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the soup and enhances all the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

Making green split pea soup is straightforward, and most of the magic happens while the soup simmers. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:

1. Rinse the Peas: Begin by rinsing your green split peas under cold water. Sometimes, dried peas can have debris or dust, so it’s a good idea to give them a thorough rinse.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
   • Add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
   • Add the garlic and sauté for another minute or so, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.

3. Add Broth And Peas

   • Pour in your vegetable or chicken broth, followed by the rinsed green split peas.
   • Add in the thyme, bay leaves, and any optional ingredients like the ham bone or ham hock if you want a more robust, meaty flavor.

4. Simmer

   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to allow it to simmer.
   • Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. The peas should break down, and the soup will thicken.

5. Check For Consistency

   • If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can always add a little extra broth or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, just let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.

6. Season To Taste

   • Once the soup is done simmering, remove the bay leaves and ham bone (if used).
   • Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for that refreshing lift.

7. Blend (Optional)

   • For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. This gives it a smooth and velvety texture, but you can also leave it chunky if you prefer.

Ingredient Insights

• Green Split Peas: These peas are rich in protein and fiber, making them a filling and heart-healthy choice. They’re also packed with vitamins like folate and iron, which are essential for overall health.
• Carrots and Celery: These vegetables form the classic mirepoix base for many soups and stews. Carrots add natural sweetness, while celery brings a bit of brightness and crunch.
• Garlic and Onion: These two ingredients are the flavor foundation for many savory dishes. Garlic has natural anti-inflammatory properties, and onions provide sweetness and a deep, savory undertone.
• Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs have been used for centuries to add depth and complexity to soups, stews, and meats. Thyme adds a warm, earthy flavor, while bay leaves contribute a subtle aromatic note.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Rush the Simmering: The slow simmer is where all the flavors meld together. If you rush the process, the peas won’t fully break down, and the soup will be grainy.
• Adjust for Texture: If you want a chunky soup, leave the peas in their natural form. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree part of the soup.
• Boost the Flavor: A small dash of smoked paprika or cumin can add a layer of warmth and smokiness, especially if you’re making a vegetarian version without ham.
• Make it Ahead: Split pea soup tastes even better the next day. If you can, make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day or two to let the flavors deepen.
• Use a Ham Bone: If you’re using a ham bone or hock, make sure to let it simmer for at least an hour to impart maximum flavor. You can also pull off the meat after cooking and shred it back into the soup for added texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Simply omit the ham or ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that mimics the depth ham would bring.
• Spicy Green Split Pea Soup: Add a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat to balance the soup’s natural earthiness.
• Creamy Version: After blending the soup, add a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, velvety texture.
• Green Split Pea and Spinach Soup: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale for added greens. They add both color and nutrition to the dish.

Final Words

Green split pea soup is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. It’s both budget-friendly and highly nutritious, making it a perfect meal for busy families or anyone looking for a filling and healthy option. The versatility of the soup also makes it easy to customize to your liking, whether you’re looking for something meaty, vegetarian, or with a spicy kick.

The key to making a great green split pea soup is in the slow simmer, so take your time, enjoy the process, and let the flavors meld into something truly comforting.