If there’s one dish that exudes comfort, warmth, and nostalgia all at once, it has to be split pea soup. This humble, hearty soup has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries, cherished for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and nourishing properties. What makes it even better is the magic of the Crock Pot-also known as a slow cooker-which allows the soup to develop deep, soulful flavors with minimal effort. Imagine coming home after a long day to a kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of simmering peas, tender vegetables, and savory ham. That’s the promise of this recipe.
Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping for a week of meals, or just craving a bowl of comfort, this split pea soup recipe will guide you step-by-step to soup perfection. And trust me, it’s easier than you think.
Split Pea Soup Crock Pot Recipe
This recipe is all about simplicity meeting flavor. By letting the ingredients slowly meld together over hours, you get a soup that’s velvety, flavorful, and downright addictive.
Ingredients Needed
To make this hearty soup, here’s what you’ll need:
- Split Peas: 1 ½ cups (green or yellow, rinsed and picked over)
- Ham or Smoked Ham Hock: 1-2 cups chopped, or 1 hock
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Potatoes: 1 medium, diced (optional for extra creaminess)
- Bay Leaves: 1-2
- Thyme: ½ teaspoon dried or 1 teaspoon fresh
- Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 6 cups (or water if preferred)
- Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for sautéing veggies)
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, croutons, or a swirl of cream
These ingredients are accessible, budget-friendly, and contribute layers of flavor that make each spoonful irresistible.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s where the magic happens. Follow these steps to create a perfectly simmered split pea soup:
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Prep Your Ingredients
- Rinse split peas thoroughly under cold water.
- Chop your vegetables evenly for uniform cooking.
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Optional Sauté Step
- Heat olive oil or butter in a pan.
- Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. This enhances flavor but isn’t mandatory for slow cooking.
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Add To Crock Pot
- Transfer sautéed veggies (or raw, if skipping sauté) into the Crock Pot.
- Add split peas, garlic, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and ham.
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Pour In Liquid
- Add broth until ingredients are covered, about 6 cups.
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Season
- Sprinkle in salt and pepper but remember, if using ham, it may already be salty, so adjust at the end.
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Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible.
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Finishing Touches
- Remove bay leaves and ham hock (if used). Shred ham from the hock and return it to the soup.
- Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture or leave it chunky. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread or croutons.
Ingredient Insights
- Split Peas: Packed with protein and fiber, they break down beautifully in slow cooking, creating a naturally creamy texture.
- Ham or Ham Hock: Adds a smoky depth that is the soul of this soup. Vegetarian alternatives include smoked paprika or liquid smoke with mushrooms.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions are the holy trinity for flavor, providing sweetness, aroma, and texture.
- Herbs & Spices: Thyme and bay leaves are classic, but a pinch of smoked paprika or rosemary can add an interesting twist.
- Broth: Homemade or store-bought, this is where the soup’s flavor base really develops.
Expert Tips
- Soaking Peas: Not necessary but can reduce cooking time slightly.
- Consistency Control: For thicker soup, mash some peas against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender.
- Flavor Depth: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors.
- Avoid Overcooking Ham: If using a fully cooked ham, add it in the last hour to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing Tips: Split pea soup freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream for a luxurious, silky texture.
- Herbal Experiment: Swap thyme for rosemary, sage, or oregano for a new aromatic dimension.
Final Words
Split pea soup in a Crock Pot isn’t just a meal-it’s an experience. It’s about the anticipation of slow-cooked flavor, the comforting warmth of a bowl in your hands, and the joy of sharing a simple, wholesome dish with people you care about. This recipe is forgiving, adaptable, and perfect for all seasons. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it has remained a beloved classic.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Split Pea Soup In A Crock Pot?
For a basic split pea soup, you will need green or yellow split peas, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, dried herbs such as thyme or bay leaves, salt, pepper, and optionally, ham or ham hocks for added flavor.
How Long Does Split Pea Soup Take To Cook In A Crock Pot?
Split pea soup generally takes 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat in a crock pot. The peas should be tender and the flavors fully developed after this cooking time.
Can I Use Frozen Split Peas In A Crock Pot Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen split peas in a crock pot. However, they may require a slightly longer cooking time to fully soften. Just ensure they are well incorporated into the recipe and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Do I Need To Soak Split Peas Before Adding Them To The Crock Pot?
No, you do not need to soak split peas before adding them to the crock pot. Split peas cook relatively quickly and do not require pre-soaking like other dried beans.
Can I Add Meat To Split Pea Soup In The Crock Pot?
Yes, adding meat such as ham, bacon, or sausage is a popular option to enhance the flavor. Ham hocks or smoked ham are commonly used in split pea soup recipes to add depth and richness.
How Do I Thicken Split Pea Soup Made In The Crock Pot?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by mashing a portion of the peas with a potato masher or blending a small amount with an immersion blender. Alternatively, you can cook the soup for an additional 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
Can I Make Split Pea Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan In The Crock Pot?
Yes, to make the soup vegetarian or vegan, simply omit any meat such as ham or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra seasonings or smoked paprika to achieve a rich, smoky flavor.
What Should I Serve With Split Pea Soup Made In The Crock Pot?
Split pea soup pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added richness.
Can I Freeze Split Pea Soup Made In The Crock Pot?
Yes, split pea soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
What Are Some Variations Of Split Pea Soup I Can Try In The Crock Pot?
You can experiment with different vegetables like parsnips, potatoes, or leeks. Adding spices like cumin or curry powder can give the soup an exotic twist. For a heartier soup, consider adding quinoa, barley, or lentils.