Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

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A Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Split pea soup has always held a special place in my heart, evoking memories of chilly winter days warmed by the rich aroma drifting through the house. The slow cooker version of this classic dish is not just convenient; it’s an invitation to indulge in a hearty, nutritious meal that practically cooks itself. With tender green split peas, flavorful ham, and a medley of vegetables, this soup becomes a beloved staple that your family will eagerly await. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this slow cooker split pea soup is your go-to recipe.

Why you’ll love this dish

You might wonder what makes split pea soup worthy of your attention. For starters, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients—many of which you might already have on hand—you can create a meal that serves a crowd. Plus, using the slow cooker means you can toss everything in, set it, and forget it. This is particularly perfect for busy families needing a wholesome dinner on the table with minimal effort.

"This soup is a game changer! I love the blend of flavors, and it’s so filling. Plus, my kids gobbled it up!" – a satisfied recipe tester

Imagine coming home after a long day to find your kitchen filled with the comforting scent of simmering soup. Nothing beats a hot bowl of this vibrant green goodness, especially when paired with warm, crusty bread. It’s nutritious, delicious, and always a hit!

Step-by-step overview

Making slow cooker split pea soup is not only straightforward but also entirely forgiving. The process includes preparing your ingredients, combining them in the slow cooker, and letting time do the work for you. You’ll get to enjoy a warm, hearty soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s how it comes together in a few easy steps:

Rinse and drain the split peas.
Combine the peas, ham, vegetables, and seasonings with broth and water in your slow cooker.
Let it cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 8 hours.
Remove the bay leaves, season with Kosher salt to taste, and give it a good stir.
For a thicker texture, consider blending a portion of the soup for that perfect creamy finish.

What you’ll need

Bowl of delicious slow cooker split pea soup garnished with fresh herbs

To create this comforting slow cooker split pea soup, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb dried green split peas
2 cups ham steak (or 1 ham bone)
3 celery stalks, diced
2 large carrots, peeled and diced
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp thyme
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
Kosher salt to taste

Feel free to experiment! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can skip the ham and add more veggies or even a dash of liquid smoke for that savory flavor profile.

Step-by-step instructions

Here’s how to prepare this delightful soup:

Start by rinsing and draining the split peas to get rid of any debris.
In the slow cooker, combine the peas, ham, diced celery, carrots, onion, minced garlic, and seasonings along with the chicken broth and water.
Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for about 8 hours, until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
After cooking, carefully remove the bay leaves from the pot.
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a standard blender (just be cautious with the hot liquid!).
Don’t forget to season with Kosher salt to taste before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

This split pea soup is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of fun ways to elevate your meal:

Serve it straight from the slow cooker in warm bowls.
Top with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of brightness.
Pair it with a side of toasted French bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’ll be happy to know that split pea soup stores well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezer: For longer storage, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months. Just remember to leave some space for the soup to expand when freezing.
When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If it thickens too much during storage, just add a little water or broth when reheating.

Helpful cooking tips

To ensure your slow cooker split pea soup turns out perfect every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

Always rinse your split peas before cooking to remove impurities and any extra starch.
If using a ham bone, don’t forget to remove any large chunks of bone after cooking for easier serving.
For those who prefer a smoother texture, blending part of the soup not only thickens it but also enhances the flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld together.

Creative twists

Looking to mix things up? Here are some creative variations you can try:

Swap the ham for turkey or even bacon to add a different flavor profile.
Add diced potatoes for a heartier version.
Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne for a little heat—perfect for those chilly nights!

Common questions

How long does split pea soup take to cook?

Cooking time can vary based on your slow cooker settings, but typically it takes about 4-5 hours on high or 8 hours on low for the peas to become tender.

Can I substitute dried peas with canned peas?

It’s best to use dried split peas as they have the ideal texture and flavor for this recipe. Canned peas won’t yield the same hearty soup consistency.

Is this soup safe to freeze?

Absolutely! Split pea soup freezes well. Just be sure to cool it fully before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Conclusion

Slow cooker split pea soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting dish that can brighten any meal. Relish the simplicity of slow cooking and enjoy wholesome, homemade flavors at your convenience. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting an intimate dinner, this soup is sure to impress. For further inspiration on this delightful dish, check out these delicious resources: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup (w/ Ham) – Real Food Whole Life, Healthy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup – A Sweet Pea Chef, and Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe – The Pioneer Woman. Happy cooking!