Descripción

This Easy Split Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. With tender split peas, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days or anytime you crave a nourishing bowl of soup. The slow cooker does most of the work, making this an ideal set-it-and-forget-it recipe!

Ingredientes

• 20 ounces dried split peas (green or yellow)
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups leftover ham, diced
• 3 ribs celery, diced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Modo de preparación

Prepare the Peas
Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold water and drain well. Soaking the peas overnight is optional but will reduce the cooking time to about 4 hours.

Combine Ingredients
In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the rinsed split peas, chicken broth, water, ham bone or diced ham, celery, carrots, onion, garlic, bay leaf, black pepper, and thyme. Stir gently to combine.

Cook the Soup
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4–5 hours or low for 8 hours. As the peas cook, they will naturally break down and thicken the soup.

Finish and Season
Once the soup is cooked, remove the bay leaf and ham bone (if used). Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.

Consejos y Conclusión

Skip Soaking: If cooking for more than 4 hours, there’s no need to soak the peas.
Using Less Peas: If you’re using a 16-ounce bag of split peas instead of 20 ounces, omit the extra 2 cups of water.
Ham Substitution: If you don’t have a ham bone or leftover ham, use smoked sausage or cooked bacon for added flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ham with smoked paprika and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Thicker Soup: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.

This Easy Split Pea Soup is a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. Its rich, savory flavors and hearty texture make it a family favorite, perfect for make-ahead meals or cozy dinners. Love this recipe? Check out more slow cooker soup ideas on our site and warm up your kitchen with tasty creations!