Description
Hearty split pea soup delivers comforting warmth from French countryside traditions. Creamy green goodness combines simple ingredients for a nourishing meal you’ll savor with each spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Base:
- 20 ounces (567 grams) dried split peas (green or yellow)
- 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups leftover ham
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Vegetables:
- 3 ribs celery, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse split peas under cold water, ensuring all debris is removed, then drain completely in a colander.
- Transfer the cleaned peas into a 6-quart slow cooker, carefully layering all remaining ingredients except fresh parsley.
- Secure the slow cooker lid and set the temperature to high, allowing the soup to simmer and develop rich flavors for 4-5 hours, or alternatively choose low setting for a gradual 8-hour cooking process.
- Once cooking completes, extract and discard the bay leaf to prevent any bitter undertones.
- Gently fold chopped parsley into the soup, providing a fresh herbaceous lift and vibrant green color.
- Taste the soup and delicately adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring a balanced and harmonious flavor profile.
Notes
- Rinse dried peas thoroughly to remove any debris or small stones that might accidentally get into your soup.
- For a smoky flavor boost, swap ham hock with bacon or add smoked paprika during cooking for depth and richness.
- Customize protein options by using chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives like tempeh for vegetarian/vegan variations.
- Freeze leftover soup in individual portions for quick, nutritious meals during busy weekdays, storing up to 3 months in airtight containers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (on High) or 8 hours (on Low)
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg