Split Pea Soup: Your Ultimate 1 Pot Wonder for Cozy, Comforting Meals

As the crisp air of autumn settles in or the chill of winter calls for warmth, there’s nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a hearty bowl of homemade Split Pea Soup. This classic, nourishing dish is a true one-pot wonder, bringing incredible flavor with minimal fuss. Forget complicated recipes – our straightforward [Related Keyword] will guide you to a bowl of pure, savory bliss, perfect for feeding the family or meal prepping for the week.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to create your next favorite comfort food. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich, satisfying flavor profile of this soup.

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (about 2 cups) dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
8 cups (2 liters) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 meaty ham hock (about 1-1.5 lbs) or 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional, omit for vegetarian)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste (add at the end, especially if using ham)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect pot of Split Pea Soup every time.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the rinsed and picked-over split peas, broth (vegetable or chicken), ham hock (if using), bay leaf, dried thyme, and black pepper to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 60-75 minutes, or until the split peas are very tender and have broken down, creating a thick and creamy soup. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. If you used a ham hock, carefully remove it from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly, then pull the tender meat from the bone, shred it, and discard the bone and any excess fat. Return the shredded ham to the soup for added flavor and texture.
6. Taste the Split Pea Soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that if you included a ham hock or diced ham, it will contribute significant saltiness, so taste before adding more. This simple and satisfying [Related Keyword] is now ready to enjoy.
7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

Smoky Heat: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Creamy Texture: For an even creamier soup, blend about a quarter of the soup with an immersion blender before returning it to the pot. For a dairy-free creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end.
Vegetarian Power-Up: For a fully vegetarian version, simply omit the ham hock and ensure you use vegetable broth. You can add diced potatoes or spinach for extra veggies.
Gourmet Garnish: Elevate your serving with crispy croutons, a swirl of crème fraîche, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Bread Bowl Bliss: Serve your piping hot soup in a hollowed-out sourdough or pumpernickel bread bowl for a truly impressive presentation and a delicious edible bowl!

FAQ

Q: Do I need to soak dried split peas before cooking?
A: No, dried split peas do not require soaking before cooking. Just rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the ham hock or any other meat product and ensure you use vegetable broth. The soup is delicious on its own!

Q: How long does Split Pea Soup last in the refrigerator?
A: Stored in an airtight container, your homemade split pea soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Q: Can Split Pea Soup be frozen?
A: Yes, it freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: What if my soup is too thin or too thick?
A: If it’s too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to allow more liquid to evaporate and the peas to break down further.

Conclusion

There you have it – a truly magical, one-pot Split Pea Soup that delivers warmth, nutrition, and incredible flavor with minimal effort. This recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated, and a delicious [Related Keyword] is well within reach for any home cook. Embrace the ease and enjoy the delightful results, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that truly satisfies.

Recipe Note

For an even deeper flavor, make this soup a day ahead. The flavors meld and intensify overnight, making it even more delicious the next day! Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.