Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe

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The Comfort of Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe

There’s something truly heartwarming about a bowl of split pea soup, don’t you think? It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug, especially on a crisp day when you crave something both nourishing and satisfying. I love how this Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe carries that golden, velvety texture combined with just a whisper of herbs and smoky ham, creating a flavor that’s comforting and deeply wholesome.

What’s great is that this recipe isn’t just a winter standby—it’s a go-to anytime you want a cozy, soul-soothing dish that’s straightforward to make. You’ll notice the aromas of onion, garlic, and thyme pull you right into the kitchen, and by the end of your simmering session, you’ll have a beautifully thick, rich soup that’s super easy to customize based on what you’ve got in your pantry.

Let me walk you through this Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe step-by-step—I promise you’ll feel like an old kitchen friend making something truly special.

Ingredient Guide

• Olive Oil: Your fragrant base for sautéing — brings a subtle fruitiness that builds depth.
• Onion, Garlic, Carrots, Celery: The classic flavor trio with a fresh crunch and aromatic essence.
• Dried Green Split Peas: The star! They thicken the soup naturally and offer a creamy, hearty texture once cooked.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Carefully chosen to control saltiness, you can use chicken or vegetable depending on your preference.
• Bay Leaf & Thyme: These herbs add a gentle, earthy fragrance that elevates every spoonful.
• Salt & Pepper: Balance and brighten the flavors — adjust to taste as you go.
• Diced Ham (Optional): Provides a smoky, savory punch that’s a classic pairing with split pea soup.
• Chopped Parsley (Optional): A fresh pop of color and herbal lift for serving.

Prep Before You Begin

Before diving in, I suggest rinsing and sorting the split peas to rinse away dust and any unwanted bits—it’s a quick step that pays off in purity of flavor and texture. Have all your vegetables chopped and ready, so you can seamlessly move from sautéing to simmering without a pause. No special oven temperature here since everything happens on the stovetop, so just focus on setting your pot on a reliable burner where you can easily control the heat for that gentle simmer later.

How to Make Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe

Follow these steps for a delicious, satisfying bowl you’ll want again and again. I like to cook it low and slow to gently coax out that velvety texture.

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally as they soften for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the kitchen fills with a fragrant, savory smell that’s pure comfort in progress.
2. Add Peas and Broth: Toss in the rinsed split peas, then pour the broth over. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, making sure everything mingles well. This is where the hearty base starts forming.
3. Simmer Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 60 to 75 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the peas from sticking. Watch as the soup thickens beautifully and the peas become tender, almost melting in your mouth.

4. Add Ham (Optional): If you’re using diced ham, stir it in now. Let it simmer with the soup for 5 to 10 more minutes to infuse that smoky warmth throughout. This addition really turns the soup into a comforting, full-flavored meal.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright finish. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, thick, and lightly crisp edges where the soup kisses the bowl.

Creative Variations for Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe

• Add a splash of smoky paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth that lingers gently on the palate.
• Swap ham for diced smoked sausage or bacon for a different smoky twist.
• Stir in kale or spinach near the end of cooking for a fresh green boost and extra texture.
• Use coconut milk instead of broth for a creamy, dairy-free variation with a slight sweetness.
• For a vegetarian version, skip the ham and use vegetable broth with a dash of smoked salt.
• Top with crunchy croutons or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to add that contrasting crispness.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding broth if it thickens too much.
• Tip: Avoid reheating too aggressively to prevent the peas from breaking down into mush.

Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe FAQs

• Q: Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
  A: Absolutely! Yellow split peas will give a slightly sweeter and milder flavor but work just as well in this recipe.
• Q: Do I have to soak the split peas?
  A: No soaking is necessary. Split peas cook relatively quickly and become tender without pre-soaking, which keeps this soup easy to make.
• Q: How can I make this soup vegan?
  A: Simply use vegetable broth and skip the ham. Adding smoked paprika can compensate for that savory depth you might miss.
• Q: What if my soup is too thick after cooking?
  A: Just stir in a bit more broth or water, reheat gently, and adjust seasoning as needed to restore your preferred consistency.
• Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
  A: Definitely! This Delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe actually tastes better the next day, once the flavors have had time to meld.

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