Easy Split Pea Soup
Cozy up with a comforting bowl of Easy Split Pea Soup, a hearty, one-pot recipe that's simple to prepare and packed with nourishing flavors. Made with tender dried split peas, aromatic garlic, and a medley of sautéed vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion, this soup boasts a rich, creamy texture without the need for dairy. Infused with warming spices like thyme and an optional hint of smoked paprika, this dish can be effortlessly customized as vegetarian or enhanced with smoky ham for a more traditional twist. Ready in just over an hour and perfect for meal prep, this homemade split pea soup is a satisfying dinner that pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread. Whether you're craving a cozy weeknight meal or a budget-friendly recipe, this easy-to-make soup is a must-try!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried split peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 ham hock or diced ham (optional for non-vegetarian version)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the split peas under cold water and pick out any debris or stones. Set aside.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Stir in the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). If making the non-vegetarian version, add the ham hock or diced ham at this point.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 50-60 minutes. Stir occasionally and check to make sure the peas are breaking down into a creamy consistency.
Remove and discard the bay leaf (and the ham hock, if used). Use a spoon to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer some or all of the soup to a blender, process until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2639 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.3 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.2 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 35 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 7918 mg | 344% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 402.1 g | 146% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 136.9 g | 489% | |
| Total Sugars | 78.9 g | ||
| Protein | 154.2 g | 308% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 698 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 32.0 mg | 178% | |
| Potassium | 8839 mg | 188% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
