Healthy and Hearty Split Pea Soup Recipe
Let me tell you—this is the bowl of comfort you never knew you needed—even though you've probably heard of it, seen it, or even tasted it. Well, it's soup. Is it really going to be that exciting? Split pea soup is one of those classic recipes that can catch you off guard, much like those popular TikTok trends that you pretend not to like but end up loving. It's savory, rich, and comforting. And you know what? Making it is also incredibly simple!
"Sure, but what else is there to do with broth and peas?" you may be asking. Trust me when I say this: the sky's the limit, my friend. This recipe can be made as simple or fancy as you like by adding whatever vegetables and proteins you desire. Not only is it tasty, but it's also nutritious and filling, so you can feel like you've won dinner (or life, for that matter).
Can Split Pea Soup Be Vegetarian?
For those who prefer a vegetarian diet, there's no need to worry about the traditional addition of ham to split pea soup. You can adjust this recipe in any way you like. To make it vegetarian, omit the ham and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. And just like that, you have a bowl of comfort food that is vegetarian, incredibly flavorful, and, dare I say it, fat-free.
Split pea soup is fantastic because the peas are a flavorful and versatile ingredient. You won't even notice the absence of meat because of its high fiber content and naturally abundant protein. Also, they become a thick and velvety soup that is decadent without being heavy when simmered for a while. It's a win-win situation.
Want to Add Protein? Here’s How to Amp It Up
Okay, maybe you’re not going the vegetarian route and want to pack some extra protein into your soup. Good news—you’ve got options! And no, it’s not just ham or bust. You can totally customize this soup based on what you’ve got in your fridge or what you’re in the mood for. Here are a few protein-packed ideas:
- Diced Chicken: This is a great lean option. It’s tender and juicy and soaks up all that rich, savory flavor.
- Leftover Turkey: Have some leftovers hanging out in the fridge? Toss them in! It’s perfect for a post-holiday soup situation.
- Bacon Crumbles: Want to take this to the next level? A few crispy bacon bits will give your soup a smoky, salty kick.
- Plant-Based Sausage: Yes, vegetarians, I haven’t forgotten about you! Plant-based sausage is an excellent way to sneak in some extra protein without compromising flavor.
Which Veggies Work Best?
Split pea soup is one of those dishes where the more, the merrier—especially regarding veggies. While the peas are the star, the supporting cast can shine, too. Here are a few vegetables that totally level up the flavor and texture:
- Carrots: Sweet crunchy, and they add a pop of color.
- Onions: Because what’s soup without onions? They bring all the savory goodness.
- Celery: A slight fresh bitterness balances the richness of the peas.
- Potatoes: Want to make it even heartier? Potatoes are your best friend. They give the soup a nice bite and a chunkier texture.
- Leeks: If you’re feeling fancy, leeks add a subtle sweetness and more depth than onions alone.
Don’t be afraid to get creative here. Seriously, almost any veggie you have on hand can work in this soup. Just chop them up small, so they blend right in with all the creamy goodness of the peas.
Craving Something Richer? Try Adding Creams or Cheeses
If you want to a creamy split pea soup like me, there are a few easy ways to add richness and depth. Stirring in a bit of heavy cream at the end makes the soup ultra-luxurious, giving it a creamy, indulgent texture. For a sour kick, you can add sour cream just before serving, which adds a nice balance to the savory flavors. And if you're a cheese lover, sprinkling some grated cheddar or Parmesan over the top is a game-changer. As it melts into the soup, it creates a comforting, cheesy pull that makes every spoonful even more satisfying.
And don’t forget about the toppings! A handful of crispy croutons or even some toasted garlic bread for dipping is never wrong. The added crunch is everything. Enough talk—let’s get into the actual recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 Cups dried green or yellow peas, washed and drained
- 7 Cups water
- 2 Cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you're keeping it vegetarian)
- 2 Teaspoons parsley
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1/2 Teaspoon thyme
- 6 Cloves garlic, crushed
- 4 Celery stalks, diced
- 2 Carrots, diced
- 1 Onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Cup of leftover ham or diced ham (optional)
How to Make Split Pea Soup?
Step 1: Boil and Simmer
In a large pot, combine your peas, water, broth, parsley, and bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 50 minutes. Stir every so often to keep things moving.
Zulay Says: Want to speed things up? Soak your peas for a few hours before cooking, and they’ll soften up faster.
Step 2: Add Veggies
Toss in your diced celery, carrots, onions, garlic, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using ham (or any other protein), now’s the time to throw that in, too! Cover and simmer for another hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Finish It Off
Once the soup is thick and creamy, pull out the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like it a little thicker, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. Want it smoother? Use an immersion blender to blitz part of the soup.
Step 4: Serve
Ladle it into bowls, sprinkle with some fresh parsley, and prepare for the coziest meal ever. Pair with crusty bread or top with croutons if you’re feeling fancy.
Let Us Know What You Think!
So, how’d it go? Did you love it? Hate it? Tweak it? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts. And hey, if you’ve got any ideas for what we should make next, drop those in too! We’re always on the lookout for new recipes to try.
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