Dried Split Pea Soup Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that’s both hearty and nutritious, a classic Dried Split Pea Soup is one of the most satisfying options to consider. This dish is an absolute gem in the world of soups-it’s budget-friendly, packed with plant-based protein, and versatile enough to be adjusted to different tastes or dietary needs.

The beauty of split pea soup lies in its simplicity. At its core, it’s a rustic, satisfying combination of peas, vegetables, and seasonings simmered together into a creamy, hearty concoction that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re making it for a cozy winter night or a quick weeknight dinner, split pea soup is always a reliable choice.

Let’s dive into the details, from the ingredients you’ll need to the subtle adjustments that can make your split pea soup uniquely your own.

Dried Split Pea Soup Recipe

Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe for a hearty Dried Split Pea Soup that serves 4-6 people, perfect for a family meal or leftovers. It’s the kind of dish that improves with time, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients Needed

To create a rich and flavorful split pea soup, here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups dried split peas – The star ingredient of the dish. Split peas are inexpensive and rich in protein and fiber.
• 1 large onion – This forms the flavor base of your soup, bringing sweetness and depth when cooked.
• 2 carrots – Adds sweetness and a bit of texture to the soup.
• 2 celery stalks – Contributes to the aromatic flavor profile that is essential to the soup’s base.
• 2 cloves garlic – Garlic is a must to elevate the overall flavor with a gentle warmth.
• 1 bay leaf – Adds an aromatic earthiness that infuses the broth during cooking.
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water – Using vegetable broth adds an extra layer of flavor, but water will work if you’re looking for a simpler, lighter base.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme pairs beautifully with peas and vegetables, bringing a subtle earthiness.
• Salt and pepper – Adjust according to taste. Always taste the soup and season incrementally.
• Optional: 1-2 smoked ham hocks or 1 cup cooked ham – For a non-vegetarian version, these will add a smoky depth to the flavor. For vegetarians, skip this for a clean, plant-based flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Making split pea soup is a relatively easy and low-maintenance process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get it just right:

1. Rinse The Split Peas

   Start by placing the dried split peas in a fine mesh sieve or colander. Rinse them thoroughly under cool water to remove any dust or debris. This will also help with the cooking process to ensure the peas break down evenly.

2. Prep Your Veggies

   Peel and chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic as well. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly they’ll cook and contribute to the broth’s flavor.

3. Sauté The Vegetables

   In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.

4. Add The Garlic And Seasonings

   Toss in the garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir for another minute to let the garlic become fragrant, but don’t let it brown. Garlic burns easily and can turn bitter if overcooked.

5. Add The Split Peas And Liquid

   Stir the rinsed split peas into the vegetable mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water, if using), and bring everything to a gentle simmer. If you’re using ham or ham hocks, add them now as well.

6. Simmer And Cook

   Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for about 45 minutes to an hour. Stir occasionally. You’ll notice that the peas start to soften and break apart, thickening the soup. If the soup gets too thick, you can always add a little extra water or broth.

7. Final Seasoning Adjustments

   Once the peas have fully softened, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you used ham, you might not need much salt since ham can be quite salty already.

8. Blend (Optional)

   If you prefer a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency. This step is optional, as some people like their soup to have more texture.

9. Serve And Enjoy

   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a warm slice of crusty bread. For a bit of extra flavor, you can drizzle a little olive oil or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and nutrition. Let’s break it down:

• Dried Split Peas: These legumes are high in protein, fiber, and iron, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Split peas cook relatively quickly, especially compared to other dried beans, and they break down into a creamy texture when cooked.
• Vegetable Broth: While water can do the job, vegetable broth adds depth and richness to the soup, making it more satisfying. Homemade broth is even better, but store-bought works just as well for convenience.
• Smoked Ham or Ham Hocks: For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, adding ham introduces a salty, rich element that complements the split peas beautifully. The ham hocks also release collagen into the broth, which thickens the soup and adds a silky texture.
• Garlic, Onion, Carrots, and Celery: Known as the ’mirepoix’ in French cooking, these vegetables are the aromatic base that adds a savory, slightly sweet foundation to many soups and stews.
• Herbs: Bay leaves and thyme pair well with split peas, enhancing their earthy flavor while also infusing the broth with warmth and complexity.

Expert Tips

• Rinse the Peas Well: Don’t skip this step! Rinsing the split peas helps to remove any dirt or small stones that might be mixed in.
• Soak the Peas (Optional): While it’s not necessary, soaking dried split peas for a few hours or overnight can speed up the cooking time. This is especially useful if you’re in a hurry.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Simmering the soup gently allows the flavors to meld together without overcooking the peas or making the broth too murky.
• Add More Flavor with Smoked Paprika: If you love smoky flavors but aren’t using ham, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or liquid smoke can give you that depth without adding meat.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about split pea soup is its flexibility. Here are a few ways you can change it up:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and use a vegetable-based broth for a fully plant-based soup. Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast at the end for a cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
• Curried Split Pea Soup: Add curry powder or turmeric for an Indian-inspired twist. The spices will give the soup a beautiful golden color and a vibrant depth of flavor.
• Creamy Split Pea Soup: Blend the soup after cooking, then swirl in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for an extra creamy finish.

Final Words

Dried split pea soup is a timeless recipe that has been loved by generations. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or serving it to a group. Simple, nourishing, and customizable, it’s a great recipe to keep in your rotation. The best part? It only gets better with time, meaning you can enjoy delicious leftovers for days.