Description
This creamy split pea soup brings the charm of grandma-style cooking to your kitchen with a naturally thick, smooth texture and warm, comforting flavors. Ideal for chilly evenings or family dinners, this hearty, easy soup is packed with split peas and aromatic vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 cups dried split peas (green or yellow)
10 cups water or vegetable broth
1 large onion, chopped
3 medium carrots, chopped
3 medium celery stalks, chopped
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups canned diced tomatoes (optional for a richer flavor)
2 tsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp salt, or to taste
1 tsp black pepper, or to taste
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)
2 tbsp whole wheat flour or cornstarch (for optional extra thickness)
Instructions
Rinse the split peas under cold water and drain well.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the split peas, water or broth, diced tomatoes (if using), salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the peas are very tender and the soup is thick.
Once tender, remove the bay leaf and stir in the apple cider vinegar for a touch of tang.
If you desire a silkier texture, use an immersion blender to purée half the soup, or transfer to a blender in batches and return to the pot.
For extra thickness, stir in the flour or cornstarch mixed with a small amount of cold water until dissolved. Simmer for a few more minutes until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth and skip any animal-derived protein. Add extra vegetables like potatoes or green beans for more texture.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freeze any unused soup for up to 3 months.
If you’d like to add other flavors, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of cumin, or a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 90
- Category: Soups
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American, Grandma-style
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg