Split Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl made from green split peas that cook down into a creamy, satisfying base. It’s often flavored with pieces of ham or smoked bacon, along with onions, carrots, and celery, giving it a wonderful depth of flavor and a touch of smokiness. The texture is thick and smooth, perfect for a chilly day when you want something warm and filling.
I love making this soup when I want a meal that’s easy to prepare but feels like a little hug in a bowl. One of my favorite things about split pea soup is how well it keeps in the fridge — I can make a big pot and have lunches or dinners ready for days. A good tip is to soak the peas beforehand; it helps speed up cooking and gets that creamy texture just right.
When I serve this soup, I like to add a slice of crusty bread or a simple grilled cheese on the side. It turns a simple meal into something cozy and extra comforting. Everyone I know seems to have fond memories of this soup from their childhood, and I can see why—it’s the kind of food that feels like home no matter when you eat it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Split Peas: These are the star of the soup, providing that creamy texture and earthy flavor. If you can’t find green split peas, yellow split peas work just as well and offer a slightly sweeter taste.
Broth: Using vegetable or chicken broth adds depth. For a richer flavor, try homemade broth. Water works too if you want to keep it simple, but the soup will be milder.
Onion, Carrots, and Celery: Known as the “holy trinity” for soups, these veggies build the base flavor. If you don’t have celery, extra carrots or leeks can work as a substitute.
Bay Leaf & Thyme: These herbs contribute subtle aromatic notes. Fresh thyme is great if you have it, but dried is easy and stores well.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Yet Chunky Texture?
The trick is to cook the peas long enough for them to soften and break down, then blend part of the soup. Here’s how:
- Simmer uncovered to let the peas soften and the soup thicken naturally.
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and blend about half the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Keep some chunks for texture and heartiness—this balance feels satisfying.
- Season last after blending since flavors concentrate as it thickens.
Blending halfway keeps the soup creamy without turning it into a puree, making each spoonful enjoyable.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot – great for even heat and prevents the peas from sticking or burning.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Immersion blender – makes it easy to blend the soup directly in the pot for a creamy texture.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop your veggies quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, especially spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add diced ham or smoked sausage for a smoky, meaty boost that pairs well with peas.
- Stir in fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
- Include chopped potatoes or sweet potatoes to make the soup heartier and add natural sweetness.
- For a dairy twist, swirl in a bit of cream or coconut milk to add richness and smoothness.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Immersion blender (optional, for blending soup)
- Regular blender (optional, if you don’t have an immersion blender)
Variations You Can Try:
- Ham or Bacon: Add diced ham or cooked bacon pieces for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Herbs: Try fresh rosemary, parsley, or bay leaf for additional aroma.
- Vegetables: Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to make the soup heartier.
- Dairy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess.
- Spice: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for warmth.
Can I Use Dried Peas Without Soaking?
Yes! Split peas cook relatively quickly and don’t require soaking like other dried beans. Just rinse them well before using.
How Do I Store Leftover Split Pea Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any meat add-ins to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
How Can I Thicken My Split Pea Soup?
Simmer the soup uncovered so some liquid evaporates, then blend part of it for a creamy consistency. Adding pureed cooked potatoes can also help thicken it.
