Cozy Split Pea Soup Recipe for Chilly Days – Easy & Delicious

Split pea soup has a way of wrapping you in a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Just picture this: a thick, creamy bowl of vibrant green goodness, steam rising like morning mist, and the aroma of smoky ham mingling with earthy peas. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from your grandma—or at least from that one friend who always steals your fries but also brings soup to share.

Now, let me take you back to those rainy afternoons when I was a kid. My mom would whip up split pea soup, and we’d huddle around the table, eagerly awaiting those hearty bowls. The splashes of bright green were as inviting as they were comforting. This soup is perfect for lazy Sundays or when you’re battling the sniffles—it’s just what the doctor ordered (well, sort of). So, grab your apron and get ready because we’re diving into this delicious adventure!

Ingredients for Split Pea Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green Split Peas: These are the star of the show! Look for dried peas that are uniform in color and size—no one likes a rogue brown pea ruining their vibe.
• Smoked Ham Hock: This adds that irresistible smoky flavor. If you’re vegetarian, you can use liquid smoke or smoked paprika instead.
• Carrots: Fresh and diced carrots bring sweetness and texture to the mix. Choose firm ones for the best results.
• Celery: Adds crunch and depth to the soup. Use fresh stalks that are crisp—nobody wants limp celery in their life.
• Onion: A must-have for any good soup! Chop it finely to release its aromatic magic while cooking.
• Garlic: Because what’s cooking without garlic? Use fresh cloves for an unforgettable flavor punch.
• Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness while still getting that rich flavor base.
• Bay Leaves: These add subtle herbal notes that elevate your soup from good to amazing!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Split Pea Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

Start by rinsing those green split peas under cold water until it runs clear. Then chop your onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces; this is where you can channel your inner chef!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil and toss in your chopped onions. Cook them until they turn translucent—about five minutes should do the trick. Then throw in garlic and sauté until fragrant—this will make your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Toss in diced carrots and celery along with your rinsed split peas into the pot. Next, add your smoked ham hock (or substitute) and bay leaves for that cozy flavor explosion.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Add enough vegetable broth to cover everything by about an inch—this could be roughly six cups. Bring it all to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently for about an hour or until those peas begin breaking down.

Step 5: Blend It Up (Optional)

For a creamier texture, remove the ham hock after cooking and blend part of the soup using an immersion blender until smooth (or transfer to a regular blender). Then stir everything back together!

Step 6: Serve Hot

Dish out your beautiful split pea soup into bowls. You can garnish with crispy croutons or fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy—but honestly? It’s delicious all on its own!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about grandma’s kitchen or daydream about cozy nights ahead!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing your onions and garlic in a large pot to build flavor. Next, add the split peas, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until the peas are tender, about 30-40 minutes, while stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your split pea soup by adding diced carrots or smoked ham for extra depth. Experiment with spices like cumin or even a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Make it yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Sharing my favorite memory, I recall serving this split pea soup at a family gathering where everyone raved about how comforting it was—proof that simple ingredients can create cherished moments around the table!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need to make split pea soup?

To prepare a delicious split pea soup, you’ll need dried green or yellow split peas, vegetable or chicken broth, diced onions, carrots, and celery. Garlic adds flavor, while bay leaves and thyme enhance the taste. You can also include ham hock or smoked sausage for a richer flavor. Finally, salt and pepper will round out your seasoning. This combination creates a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for chilly days.

How long does it take to cook split pea soup?

Cooking split pea soup typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours on the stovetop. If you’re using a slow cooker, allow around 6 to 8 hours on low heat. The key is to ensure the split peas are tender and fully cooked. Keep an eye on the consistency; if it becomes too thick during cooking, you can add more broth or water to achieve your desired texture.

Can I freeze leftover split pea soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftover split pea soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best consumed within three months for optimal flavor and texture. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. The soup may thicken after freezing; simply add a splash of broth when reheating.

Is split pea soup healthy?

Absolutely! Split pea soup is packed with nutrients. It’s high in protein and fiber, making it a filling option that supports digestive health. The vegetables add vitamins and minerals while keeping calories low. Using lean meats or omitting them altogether can enhance its health benefits even further. Overall, it’s a nutritious choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for split pea soup:

In summary, split pea soup is a nourishing dish that combines simple ingredients into something truly comforting. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s perfect for any season but especially enjoyable during colder months. Whether you prepare it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to your taste preferences. Enjoy this delightful meal knowing you’re serving up both warmth and nutrition!

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Comforting Split Pea Soup

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm up with this nourishing split pea soup, brimming with vibrant greens and hearty vegetables—an ideal dish for chilly days and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

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For the Soup:

• 1 cup green split peas
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. 1. Rinse the green split peas under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. 3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery, followed by the rinsed split peas, bay leaves, and enough vegetable broth to cover everything by about an inch (approximately 6 cups).
4. 4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for about 40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. 5. For a creamier texture, remove bay leaves and blend part of the soup using an immersion blender until smooth; stir back together.
6. 6. Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnished with fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg