Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Introduction

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The tender split peas break down beautifully as they cook, creating a rich, velvety base, while the vegetables and savory seasonings add layers of flavor that make each spoonful comforting and satisfying. This soup is the perfect solution for busy days or when you want to treat yourself to something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.

The first time I made Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup, I was amazed by how little effort it took to create something so flavorful and filling. I simply added the ingredients, set the slow cooker to work, and went about my day. When I returned home, the house was filled with the most inviting aroma, and I knew dinner was going to be something special. The soup turned out perfectly – thick, hearty, and packed with all the comforting flavors you expect from a classic split pea soup.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, whether you prefer a bit more garlic, a dash of heat, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Served on its own or alongside a slice of crusty bread, Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a reliable, feel-good meal that never disappoints.

Perfect for:

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• Busy weeknights
• Meal prepping
• Cold weather days
• Family dinners
• Healthy, hearty meals

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe

Here’s why Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen:

• Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare this soup. Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let the cooker do the work!
• Nutrient-Packed: Split peas are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this soup a healthy option for any meal.
• Comforting and Hearty: With its thick, creamy texture and savory flavors, this soup is the perfect meal to enjoy on chilly days.
• Budget-Friendly: This recipe is affordable, using simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.
• Great for Meal Prep: Split pea soup keeps well in the fridge and freezes beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weeks.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6-8 hours
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 2g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup:

• 1 lb dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if sautéing vegetables)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Split Peas: These tiny legumes are the star of the soup. They break down during cooking, creating a naturally thick and creamy base.
• Broth: Using a rich vegetable or chicken broth adds depth of flavor to the soup. Choose low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery form the aromatic base of the soup, giving it flavor and texture.
• Ham (Optional): If you love the taste of ham, adding a ham bone or diced cooked ham enhances the soup with a smoky richness.
• Herbs and Spices: Bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary complement the savory flavors of the peas and ham, making this soup aromatic and flavorful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Rinse the Split Peas: Place the split peas in a colander and rinse them under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the onion, peel and slice the carrots, and chop the celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic.

Assemble the Soup:

3. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Stir everything together.
4. Add Ham (Optional): If using, add the ham bone or diced cooked ham to the slow cooker.
5. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you used a ham bone, you might not need as much salt, so adjust to your preference.

Cook the Soup:

6. Slow Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally if possible.
7. Check the Consistency: Once the peas are tender, check the consistency of the soup. If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to mash some of the peas. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.

Final Adjustments:

8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Once the soup is ready, taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup can be served in various ways to suit your meal preferences:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• As a Light Lunch: Pair a bowl of soup with a simple salad for a light and satisfying lunch.
• Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle some grated cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, on top of the soup for extra flavor.
• With Crackers: Serve with a handful of crackers for added crunch and texture.
• As a Hearty Dinner: Enjoy it as a main course for dinner, served alongside a green vegetable or side salad.

Additional Tips for Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup turns out perfectly:

• Use Low-Sodium Broth: To control the amount of salt in your soup, opt for low-sodium broth or make your own at home.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup gets too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor if you prefer them over dried herbs.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian version of the soup.
• Store Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully, so make a big batch and save some for later.

Recipe Variations for Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Here are 10 variations to try with Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup:

• Smoky Split Pea Soup: Add smoked paprika or a smoked sausage for a smoky, savory twist.
• Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the soup a little heat.
• Lentil and Split Pea Soup: Mix split peas and lentils for a heartier, protein-packed soup.
• Sweet Potato Split Pea Soup: Add cubed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet contrast to the savory split peas.
• Coconut Split Pea Soup: Stir in a can of coconut milk near the end of cooking for a creamy, tropical flavor.
• Vegan Split Pea Soup: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth and mushrooms for added depth of flavor.
• Split Pea Soup with Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch that pairs well with the soft split peas.
• Garlic and Herb Split Pea Soup: Boost the flavor with extra garlic, fresh herbs like parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Split Pea Soup with Kale: Stir in chopped kale or spinach for a nutritious green addition.
• Split Pea Soup with Potatoes: Add diced potatoes for an even heartier, more filling soup.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Split pea soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Special Equipment for Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup easier:

• Slow Cooker: A reliable slow cooker is key to making this soup with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
• Colander: A colander helps rinse and sort the split peas before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Potato Masher: Use a potato masher to mash the soup and thicken it if desired.
• Immersion Blender: An immersion blender allows you to blend the soup to a creamy consistency without transferring it to a blender.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements, ensure you have proper measuring cups and spoons.

FAQ Section for Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

1. Can I use frozen split peas?
   Yes, frozen split peas will work, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
2. Can I make this soup without a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop in a large pot. It will take about 1-1.5 hours to cook.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, leeks, or bell peppers for a unique twist.
4. Can I use split peas with a different color?
   Green or yellow split peas will both work equally well in this recipe.
5. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is the epitome of cozy, comforting food. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this hearty soup provides a delicious, nutritious meal that will keep you full and satisfied. Packed with split peas, vegetables, and savory herbs, it’s a perfect dish to make in advance and enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a quick meal, this easy-to-make soup will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

I’d love to see how your split pea soup turns out! Tag me on Instagram and share your version—I can’t wait to see your creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made it your own. Happy cooking!