Split Pea Soup Recipe

This Split Pea Soup Recipe is a comforting dish that is both hearty and nutritious. Filled with tender split peas, vibrant vegetables, and savory chicken, this soup is perfect for cozy nights at home or serving to guests. It’s simple to make, and its rich flavors will keep everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from split peas and chicken, this soup offers a healthy meal option that keeps you satisfied.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of herbs and spices creates a thick, creamy texture bursting with flavor in every spoonful.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasoning to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it freezes well for future meals!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Blender or immersion blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: This ensures even cooking and prevents the soup from sticking to the bottom.
• Blender or immersion blender: Perfect for creating a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup for a smooth finish.

Ingredients

This Split Pea Soup Recipe is thick, creamy, and packed with veggies, split peas, and tender chicken—humble-looking but bursting with flavor!

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups finely diced onion (2 medium onions)
– 1 cup finely diced carrot (2 to 3 large carrots)
– 1 cup finely diced celery (3 to 4 stalks)
– Salt and pepper
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic (4 cloves)
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1-1/2 cups green split peas (rinsed; old split peas may not soften)
– 2 small bay leaves (or 1 large)
– 1 meaty chicken bone (or chicken hocks, plus more chicken if desired)
– 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
– Hearty buttered bread (for serving)

How to Make Split Pea Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the veggies are softened and the onion begins turning golden, about 5–8 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about one minute before adding rinsed split peas.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add your chicken bone, bay leaves, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 60–90 minutes. Stir occasionally so that the peas don’t catch on the bottom of the pot. Once cooked through and thickened to your liking, adjust consistency by adding more broth as needed.

Step 3: Shred Chicken & Blend

When ready to serve, remove the chicken bone from the soup. Shred off any meat you can retrieve from it before discarding bones and fat. Return shredded meat into the soup. Remove bay leaves from the pot. Take out two cups of soup and blend until smooth; then return this puree back into the pot for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Serve

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Serve with hearty buttered bread on the side along with a sprinkle of pepper and fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of split pea soup!

How to Serve Split Pea Soup Recipe

Split pea soup is not only hearty and flavorful, but it also provides a great base for creative serving ideas. Pair it with various sides or toppings to elevate your meal and impress your guests.

With Hearty Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette pairs well, perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread – This buttery delight adds a flavorful twist that complements the soup’s richness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves – Fresh thyme enhances the earthy flavor of the soup.

Accompanied by Salads

• Simple Green Salad – A light green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich soup.
• Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing in Caesar salad can complement the texture of split pea soup nicely.

How to Perfect Split Pea Soup Recipe

To make your split pea soup even more delightful, consider these simple tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs provide the best flavors. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Soak Your Peas – Soaking split peas overnight can help them cook faster and achieve a creamier texture.
• Adjust Consistency – If your soup gets too thick, add extra chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Blend for Creaminess – For a smoother soup, blend a portion before mixing it back in. This creates a creamy texture while retaining some chunks.

Best Side Dishes for Split Pea Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with split pea soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort and pair wonderfully with the soup’s flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients while providing a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon juice and veggies makes for a nutritious complement.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These colorful peppers filled with grains or beans are hearty yet light enough not to overshadow the soup.
5. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory split pea soup.
6. Spring Rolls – Fresh vegetable spring rolls add a crunchy texture and refreshing taste that balances the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making split pea soup can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Skipping rinsing the peas: Not rinsing split peas can lead to grit in your soup. Always rinse them well under cold water before cooking.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long before adding broth can make them mushy. Sauté until just softened for the best texture.
• Neglecting seasoning early: Adding salt and spices too late can prevent flavor from developing. Season your veggies while they cook for better taste.
• Using old split peas: Old split peas may not soften properly and can ruin your soup’s consistency. Check the packaging date and use fresh peas.
• Not blending enough: For a creamy texture, don’t skip blending part of the soup. It helps achieve that thick, smooth consistency we love.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Split Pea Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Split Pea Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add extra broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Split Pea Soup Recipe.

How long should I cook the split pea soup?

Cooking time varies between 60-90 minutes depending on your stove and desired thickness. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to my Split Pea Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this Split Pea Soup Recipe healthy?

Yes, this recipe is packed with fiber and protein from split peas and chicken, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken for a delicious vegetarian version of split pea soup.

Final Thoughts

This Split Pea Soup Recipe is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Its creamy texture combined with fresh veggies makes it versatile; you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try today!