Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe
Introduction
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker split pea soup, packed with hearty ham and wholesome vegetables. Perfect for busy days, it’s easy to prepare and simmers slowly to develop rich, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dry split peas
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- ½ cup chopped white onion
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Step 1: Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, including the split peas, chopped vegetables, ham, chicken broth, water, and seasonings.
- Step 2: Set the slow cooker on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours to allow the soup to cook and flavors to meld.
- Step 3: When the cooking cycle is complete, stir the soup well and remove the bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add a diced potato or parsnip for extra texture and heartiness.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup before serving.
- Rinse the split peas before cooking to remove any debris and improve texture.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. The soup may thicken upon cooling; add a splash of water or broth when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use green split peas instead of yellow split peas?
Yes, green split peas can be used interchangeably with yellow split peas. The flavor and cooking time are similar, though green peas might yield a slightly earthier taste.
Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?
No soaking is necessary for split peas. They cook relatively quickly and will soften during the slow cooking process.
PrintSlow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe
This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for busy days. Made with tender split peas, fresh vegetables, and flavorful ham, this recipe requires minimal prep and slow cooking to develop a rich, savory taste. It’s an easy, fuss-free soup that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and delivers a satisfying bowl of warmth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 lb dry split peas
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- ½ cup chopped white onion
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the dry split peas thoroughly and chop the carrots, celery, onion, and ham to ensure even cooking and flavor infusion.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the rinsed split peas, chopped vegetables, ham, chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the Soup: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 8 hours, or alternatively, cook on high for 4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the peas to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Final Stir and Serve: Once cooking is complete, stir the soup well to blend the ingredients evenly. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot for a nourishing and delicious meal.
Notes
- Rinse split peas before cooking to remove any debris or dust.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste after cooking if needed.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the peas against the side of the slow cooker and stir.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavors before serving if desired.
Keywords: Ham, Split Pea, Slow Cooker Soup, Hearty Soup, Comfort Food
