Easy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe

Split pea soup is a creamy, hearty dish that’s easy to make in a slow cooker. It’s filled with smoky ham and tender veggies, making it the perfect comfort food. This crockpot split pea soup recipe is budget-friendly and great for freezing for later. The slow cooker method means you can just set it and forget it, making a delicious soup with little effort.

Key Takeaways

Slow cooker method makes this split pea soup easy to prepare
Hearty soup packed with smoky ham and tender vegetables
Budget-friendly and perfect for meal prepping
Minimal prep and clean-up with the “set-it-and-forget-it” approach
Creamy and comforting texture

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Split Pea Soup Basics

Split pea soup is a classic loved for its creamy texture and warm flavors. It’s not just tasty but also full of high fiber and protein-rich ingredients. This makes it a healthy option for any meal. Plus, its easy cooking method shines, especially when using a slow cooker to enhance flavor and tenderness.

What Makes Split Pea Soup Special

Split pea soup’s creamy, creamy texture and rich taste make it a favorite. The slow cooking breaks down the peas, creating a smooth, velvety soup that’s hard to resist.

Health Benefits of Split Peas

Split peas are a nutritional gem, loaded with fiber and protein. A single serving can meet a big part of your daily fiber and protein needs. They’re also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and potassium.

Why Use a Slow Cooker

The easy cooking method of a slow cooker is perfect for split pea soup. It lets the flavors blend and the peas cook evenly. This method is low-maintenance, making it simple to make a tasty, healthy soup.

“The crockpot Split Pea Soup recipe is noted to have been popular for more than 25 years.”

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Split Pea Soup

Making a tasty split pea soup starts with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need dried split peas, ham or a ham bone, and vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. Don’t forget the chicken broth for flavor. These ingredients come together to make a comforting, flavorful soup.

Start with a pound of dried split peas. They’re packed with protein, fiber, iron, and folate. Add diced onions, celery, and carrots, along with minced garlic, for a strong flavor base. For a smoky taste, add cubed ham or a ham bone.

Use a mix of chicken broth and water for the soup. The broth adds depth, while water helps with the soup’s consistency. Cooking it in a Crock Pot for 5-6 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low is best. This lets the flavors blend and the peas get tender.

Ingredient	Quantity
Dried split peas	1 pound
Yellow onion, diced	1 medium
Celery, diced	1 cup
Carrots, diced	2 cups
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Bay leaves	1-2
Smoked paprika	1 teaspoon
Kosher salt	2 teaspoons
Chicken stock	1 quart
Water	2 cups
Diced ham or ham hock	2 cups

With these ingredients, you can make a delicious and healthy slow cooker split pea soup. It serves six, with leftovers that can last up to five days or be frozen for two months.

How to Choose and Prepare Split Peas

Choosing between green or yellow split peas is your first step for split pea soup. Green peas are common and give the soup its classic color. Yellow peas add a unique twist with their color and taste.

Make sure to rinse and sort the dried peas well. This removes any dirt or stones.

Green vs. Yellow Split Peas

Both green and yellow split peas are great for this slow cooker soup. Green peas are more common and keep the soup’s traditional color. Yellow peas, on the other hand, give a lighter, more vibrant soup.

Proper Cleaning and Sorting

It’s key to rinse and sort the peas before cooking. This ensures your soup is clean and of high quality. For cooking times over 4 hours, you don’t need to soak the peas first. The slow cooker will soften them.

By properly preparing the split peas, you’re on your way to a delicious slow cooker split pea soup. Your whole family will love it.

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with our easy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. It’s economical, fuss-free, and packed with fiber. It’s a healthy, satisfying choice for any night.

To make this tasty soup, you’ll need the following ingredients list:

1 lb dried split peas
2 cups diced ham
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped white onion
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf

Just combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker. No soaking needed – the peas will soften during cooking. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Stir a few times to mix well.

This recipe makes 6-8 servings, great for meal prep. Store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for three months. Enjoy the soup’s comforting flavors anytime.

For the best texture, blend a cup of soup or add diced potatoes near the end. Serve with crusty bread, a green salad, or a grilled cheese for a full meal.

The Perfect Ham Selection for Your Soup

Choosing the right ham is crucial for a great split pea soup. A meaty ham bone or leftover ham adds rich, savory flavors. Use about 2 cups of diced ham or a whole ham bone for the best taste.

Using Leftover Ham Bone

Don’t throw away a leftover ham bone! Add it to your split pea soup. As it simmers, the bone releases gelatin, making the soup thick and flavorful. Keep the bone in until the end to get the most flavor.

Alternative Meat Options

Smoked sausage, like kielbasa, is a tasty ham substitute. Its smoky flavor complements the split peas well.
Diced smoked turkey adds a lean protein boost to your soup.

Choose your meat wisely and add it early for full flavor infusion. With the right ham or meat, your split pea soup will be a comforting hit.

Vegetable Combinations That Work Best

Choosing the right vegetables is key to a great split pea soup. Classic picks like onions, carrots, and celery add depth and flavor. But don’t be afraid to try new veggies.

Adding potatoes makes the soup heartier. You can use them diced or shredded. Sweet potatoes add a sweet twist.

For more nutrition, add frozen veggies like green peas, spinach, cauliflower, or broccoli. They’re packed with vitamins and minerals. Just remember, they cook faster.

Shredding carrots makes them blend into the soup better. This is great for kids who don’t like chunky veggies. Experimenting with veggies can make your soup a hit with everyone.

Vegetable	Benefit
Onions	Adds depth and flavor
Carrots	Provides sweetness and texture
Celery	Enhances the savory elements
Potatoes	Adds heartiness and thickens the soup
Sweet Potatoes	Introduces natural sweetness
Frozen Vegetables (peas, spinach, cauliflower, broccoli)	Boosts nutrition and variety

Creating a tasty split pea soup is all about balance. Try different veggies to find your favorite mix.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a tasty slow cooker split pea soup is easy and rewarding. Begin by rinsing and draining the split peas to get rid of any dirt. Next, mix all the ingredients in your slow cooker. This includes the split peas, broth, veggies, and spices.

Cooking Times and Settings

For the best taste, cook the soup on low for 8 to 10 hours. This long cooking time makes the peas tender and the flavors blend well. If you prefer, you can cook it on high for 4 to 5 hours. You don’t need to soak the peas for more than 4 hours because the slow cooker will soften them.

But, if you’re cooking for only 4 hours on high, soaking the peas overnight is a good idea. This helps them get the right texture and consistency in less time.

Cooking Setting	Cooking Duration	Soaking Requirement
Low	8-10 hours	No soaking required
High	4-5 hours	Soak peas overnight

It’s crucial to keep the lid on the slow cooker. This helps keep the right temperature and moisture for the best split pea soup.

“The beauty of slow-cooking split pea soup is that it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.”

Achieving the Ideal Soup Consistency

The perfect bowl of split pea soup starts with the right consistency. This easy slow cooker recipe naturally makes the soup thick and creamy. The split peas break down, thickening the broth as they simmer.

If you like your soup thinner, add a bit more chicken broth. Start with an extra 1/2 cup and adjust as needed. For a thicker soup, cook with the lid off for about an hour. This lets some liquid evaporate.

For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup in the slow cooker. Or, scoop out 1-2 cups, blend it in a regular blender, and then stir it back in. This way, you get a thick soup without losing the pea and veggie chunks.

This slow cooker split pea soup recipe is very flexible. With a few tweaks, you can get the perfect consistency. It’s sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds.

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancements

Boosting the taste of your slow cooker split pea soup is simple. Start by adding fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or a bay leaf. These herbs add aromatic flavors that match the earthy taste of split peas.

For more depth, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika. It adds a subtle smoky taste that goes well with ham or bacon. If you like a bit of heat, a few dashes of hot sauce can add a nice kick.

Balancing Salt and Pepper

Finding the right mix of salt and pepper is key. The ham or broth might already have enough salt. So, taste the soup before adding more salt. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. A splash of apple cider vinegar can also enhance the flavors and balance the seasoning.

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Fresh thyme	2 sprigs	Aromatic herb
Parsley	1/4 cup, chopped	Freshness and flavor
Bay leaf	1	Earthy, savory notes
Smoked paprika	1 teaspoon	Depth of flavor
Hot sauce	1-2 tablespoons	Heat and spice
Apple cider vinegar	1/2 teaspoon	Balances seasoning

Adding these fresh herbs, smoked paprika, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar will make your slow cooker split pea soup delicious. It will be full of flavor and perfectly balanced.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Proper storage and freezing are crucial for your slow cooker split pea soup. Leftover soup can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

To freeze the soup, put it in freezer-safe containers or bags. If using bags, make sure to remove excess air and freeze the soup flat. This makes it easier to store. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge first, then reheat.

These tips help you enjoy your slow cooker split pea soup even after it’s cooked. You can enjoy the refrigeration, freezing, and reheating flexibility this recipe offers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Getting the perfect split pea soup consistency can be tricky. But, with a few tweaks, you can fix any texture or flavor issues. Whether your soup is too thick, too thin, or tastes bland, we’ve got tips to make it delicious.

Texture Problems

If your soup is too thick, add more broth to thin it out. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, simmer it with the lid off to reduce liquid. You can also puree some of the soup to thicken it.

Seasoning Adjustments

Seasoning is all about finding the right balance. If your soup tastes bland, add more salt, pepper, or herbs. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor.

Remember, different slow cookers cook at different temperatures. So, check the liquid levels often and adjust the seasoning as needed.

“With a little troubleshooting, you can easily overcome any texture or seasoning issues and enjoy a delicious, comforting bowl of split pea soup every time.”

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This hearty split pea soup is incredibly versatile. Serve it with a crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping. A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

For extra flavor, top each bowl with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh parsley. This adds a delightful touch.

Pairing the soup with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a cold beer can enhance the dining experience. The soup’s savory notes complement the wine’s bright acidity or the beer’s refreshing hoppiness. Serving it as a starter before the main course is also a great idea.

This slow cooker split pea soup is sure to become a favorite. It offers endless possibilities for enjoying its comforting flavors. Whether you choose bread, salad, or garnishes, it’s a satisfying and nourishing choice.

FAQ

What makes split pea soup so special?

Split pea soup is creamy and hearty. It’s made easy in a slow cooker. It’s filled with smoky ham and tender veggies, making it a true comfort food.

What are the health benefits of split peas?

Split peas are full of fiber and protein. This makes the soup both healthy and filling.

Why is using a slow cooker the best method for this recipe?

The slow cooker makes prep easy, even for those with busy lives. It cooks the peas slowly, making them tender and flavorful.

What are the key ingredients in split pea soup?

You’ll need dried split peas, ham, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken broth. You can also add potatoes, sweet potatoes, or frozen veggies like peas and spinach.

What’s the difference between green and yellow split peas?

Green split peas are more common and give the soup its signature color. Yellow split peas can change the soup’s hue.

Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?

For cooking times over 4 hours, you don’t need to soak the peas.

What’s the best type of ham to use in split pea soup?

Use a meaty ham bone or leftover ham for the best flavor. Smoked sausage or diced smoked turkey are good alternatives.

What are the traditional vegetables used in split pea soup?

Onions, carrots, and celery are traditional. You can also add potatoes or sweet potatoes. Frozen veggies like peas and spinach are great too.

How do I adjust the consistency of the soup?

For a thinner soup, add more chicken broth. To thicken, cook with the lid off for an hour or blend some of the soup.

How can I enhance the flavor of the split pea soup?

Add fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. Use a bay leaf and smoked paprika for extra flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.