As the weather cools down and the nights grow darker, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of soup. And when it comes to hearty, satisfying options, split pea soup is hard to beat. Made with green or yellow split peas, aromatics, and sometimes meat or vegetables for added depth of flavor, this classic soup is a staple of many cuisines around the world.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different recipes for split pea soup that are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. From classic combinations like ham and potatoes to more adventurous options featuring chorizo or curry powder, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious and easy-to-make soups.
Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup
Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Winter Treat
This beloved soup recipe combines the richness of ham with the simplicity of split peas, creating a warm and comforting meal perfect for chilly winter days.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham steak, diced
– 2 cups split green peas
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the diced ham, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, split peas, and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Vegan Split Pea Soup with Coconut Milk
This comforting vegan soup is a twist on the classic split pea, incorporating creamy coconut milk for added richness and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine split peas, water or broth, onion, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until peas are tender.
2. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Smoky Bacon Split Pea Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky flavors from bacon and vegetables, simmered to perfection with creamy split peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups dried split peas
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot; set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add split peas, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Stir in cooked bacon and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
This classic split pea soup recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering a rich and flavorful result.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the split peas, chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, and thyme to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Curried Split Pea Soup with Turmeric
This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional split pea soup, infused with the warmth and depth of turmeric and curry spices. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a comforting meal to brighten up any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add split peas, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Carrots and Celery
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, made with tender split peas, sweet carrots, and crunchy celery. It’s an easy and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: ham hock or bacon for added smokiness
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until tender.
2. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency. Alternatively, allow it to cool and blend in a food processor.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Split Pea Soup with Chorizo
This hearty soup combines the creamy richness of split peas with the bold flavors of chorizo and a hint of spice, making it perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chorizo sausage, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chorizo; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add split peas, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree soup to desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
Instant Pot Split Pea Soup
This classic comfort food is elevated with the ease and speed of an Instant Pot. With minimal effort, you’ll have a hearty, creamy bowl of goodness ready to warm your belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add split peas, chicken broth, water, and cumin. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (plus natural release)
Creamy Split Pea Soup with Potatoes
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and creamy soup made with split peas, potatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, split peas, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches and return to the pot.
4. Stir in the butter and heavy cream (if using). Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Fresh Herbs
This classic recipe gets a boost of flavor from fresh herbs, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year. With its creamy texture and vibrant green color, this split pea soup is sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until tender.
2. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Split Pea and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of split peas and lentils, simmered to perfection with aromatic spices and herbs. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or yellow split peas
– 1 cup brown or red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the split peas, lentils, vegetable broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas and lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Smoked Sausage
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the creamy goodness of split peas with the smoky flavor of sausage, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the split peas, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour
Split Pea Soup with Kale and Garlic
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy split peas, nutritious kale, and pungent garlic, making it a comforting and flavorful meal for any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves (stems removed)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the split peas and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir the cooked garlic into the split pea mixture. Add the chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Moroccan-Inspired Split Pea Soup
This hearty and aromatic soup is a twist on the classic split pea soup, infused with the warm spices and flavors of Morocco. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the split peas, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Rosemary and Thyme
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of split peas with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary and thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Barley
This comforting split pea soup with barley recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a great option for a chilly day or a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the split peas, chicken broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the peas and barley are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Split Pea Soup with Lemon Zest
This vibrant green soup is a delightful twist on the classic split pea, infused with the bright and citrusy flavor of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tablespoons)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the peas again.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Crumbled Feta
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for any time of the year. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of split peas pair beautifully with the tanginess of crumbled feta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine split peas, broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 18 delicious split pea soup recipes! From classic ham and pea to vegan options like coconut milk-based soups, there’s something for everyone. Try adding smoky bacon or chorizo for added depth, or keep it simple with slow cooker or instant pot methods. You’ll also find creative twists like curried turmeric and Moroccan-inspired flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a hearty party dip, these split pea soup recipes have got you covered.
