This cozy split pea soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with tasty split peas, carrots, celery, and a touch of herbs, it’s both hearty and healthy.
It’s the perfect dish for chilly days, and it cooks up easy in one pot. I love how it gets better the next day—more time for flavors to mingle! 🍵
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Split Peas: These yellow or green peas are the star of the show. They’re full of protein and fiber! If you’re in a pinch, you can swap them with lentils, but keep in mind the cooking time will change.
Broth: I usually use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, but chicken broth gives it a nice depth. If you’re making this vegan or vegetarian, stick with vegetable broth or even water with some extra seasoning for more flavor.
Herbs: Thyme is wonderful in this soup. If you don’t have thyme, consider substituting with rosemary, oregano, or even Italian seasoning—each gives its own unique twist!
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery make a great base. Feel free to throw in other veggies you have on hand, like potatoes or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture in Split Pea Soup?
Getting the right texture is key for a delicious split pea soup. Here’s how you can achieve that perfect consistency:
- Start by simmering the soup for at least an hour. The longer it cooks, the creamier it becomes as the peas break down.
- If you like a chunky texture, use an immersion blender partway through just to blend some peas while leaving others intact.
- Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking on the bottom of the pot. This helps the soup cook evenly!
How to Make Split Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 sprig fresh thyme)
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Optional garnish: croutons and fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious split pea soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and 1 to 1½ hours to cook. So, you’re looking at a total of around 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish. The good news? Most of that time is hands-off, letting the flavors meld together perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Split Peas
Start by rinsing the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dirt and debris. Once rinsed, set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes or until they’ve softened up a bit.
3. Add the Garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute. You want it to smell amazing but be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine All the Ingredients
Now, add the rinsed split peas, vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1½ hours. Stir occasionally until the peas are tender and the soup thickens up nicely.
6. Final Touches
After cooking, remove the bay leaf and any thyme sprigs if you used fresh thyme. Season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste for extra flavor.
7. Blend or Serve as Is
If you like a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially puree it while keeping some texture. Or, if you prefer it chunky, leave it as is!
8. Garnish and Enjoy
Serve your split pea soup hot, topped with crunchy croutons and fresh thyme sprigs if desired. It’s perfect as a hearty meal or alongside some crusty bread!
Enjoy this comforting, hearty soup that’s not only delicious but also very nourishing!
Can I Use Yellow Split Peas Instead of Green?
Absolutely! Yellow split peas can be used interchangeably with green ones. The flavor is slightly different, but the soup will still be delicious and creamy!
What Should I Do If My Soup Is Too Thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
How to Store Leftover Split Pea Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! Split pea soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed!