The Ultimate Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup: Classic Comfort Made Easy
Tend to other tasks while this hands-off recipe delivers comfort in every spoonful.
The Ultimate Guide to Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup has remained a cherished comfort food in kitchens for generations, beloved for its earthy flavor, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients. Cooking it in a slow cooker, or crock pot, brings out the soup’s full depth without the need for constant supervision. This guide will walk through the process of making slow cooker split pea soup with ham, highlight key ingredients and tips, and answer common questions to guarantee soup success every time.
Why Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup?
Slow cooking split pea soup yields exceptionally tender peas that break down into a naturally thick, creamy soup. This method shines for busy home cooks who want a hands-off approach—combine the ingredients in the morning, and return to a hot, nourishing meal in the evening.
- Effortless Prep: No need to pre-cook veggies—just chop and toss them in.
- Set and Forget: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting during the day.
- Great for Leftovers: Soup thickens and flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.
Ingredients for Perfect Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Traditional split pea soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. The most authentic version uses diced ham for flavor and protein, but variations are abundant. Here are the core ingredients:
- 1 lb. dried split green peas (rinsed and sorted)
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 8 oz. cubed ham (use leftover ham, ham hock, or hambone for added flavor)
- 1 quart chicken stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs parsley (plus more for serving)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups water (add for desired consistency)
Ingredient Tips:
- Pick through the split peas for small stones or debris before rinsing.
- Using a ham bone or hock infuses the soup with extra smoky flavor—add it if available!
- Vegetarians can skip the meat and use liquid smoke for depth.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prep the Peas: Place the split peas in a colander, rinse thoroughly, and remove any small debris.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Add the peas, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, cubed ham, chicken stock, and water to the slow cooker.
- Bundle the Herbs: Tie the thyme, parsley, and bay leaf together with kitchen twine to create an herb bundle. Add it to the slow cooker.
- Cook:
- On high for 4–5 hours
- On low for 8–10 hours
Cook until peas are tender and have naturally thickened the soup.
- Finish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the herb bundle. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Pro Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup
- Consistency Control: If you love very thick pea soup, leave it as-is. For a thinner consistency, stir in up to 1 cup of extra water or stock at the end until the soup is perfect for your taste.
- For Creamier Soup: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for an extra velvety texture.
- The Right Ham: Leftover spiral ham, ham steak, or ham bone all work excellently. The bone adds richness beyond what diced ham provides.
- Make Ahead: Like most soups, split pea soup tastes even better after a day in the fridge.
Customize Your Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit dietary needs or preferences. Here are some popular options:
- Vegetarian Split Pea Soup: Omit the ham and use vegetable stock. Add smoked paprika or one teaspoon of liquid smoke for a subtle smoky undertone.
- Meat Alternatives: Use bacon, ham hock, smoked turkey leg, or even no meat at all. All will provide unique flavors.
- Extra Veggies: Leeks, potatoes, and parsnips are great additions for more depth.
- Spice Variations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat, or fresh dill for brightness.
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Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
Split pea soup is wonderful for meal prepping and storing. Here’s how to handle leftovers:
- Storing: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The soup will thicken as it chills; thin with water or broth when reheating if desired.
- Freezing: Ladle cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra liquid if needed to loosen.
Nutrition Information
Split pea soup is both nutritious and satisfying, offering a balanced blend of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, especially when prepared with lean ham and plenty of vegetables.
- High fiber: Split peas are among the best fiber sources, making this soup great for digestive health.
- Good protein: Combine split peas and ham for a protein boost.
- Low fat: Use lean ham and omit extra oils to keep fat content modest.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300–350 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fiber | 18g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbs | 53g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
Values are estimates based on a standard recipe with ham and vegetables. Actual nutrition may vary.
Troubleshooting & Tips
- Soup is too thick: Stir in a little extra broth or hot water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Soup is too thin: Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing the soup to reduce, or blend a portion of the peas for added thickness.
- Peas haven’t softened: Old split peas can be tough. Ensure freshness; avoid using peas that have sat in the pantry for over a year.
- Other flavorings: A dash of lemon juice or vinegar perks up the flavor right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Bread Pairings: Serve with thick slices of toasted sourdough, rustic baguette, or homemade biscuits for a complete meal.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for some fresh crunch.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle extra parsley, cracked black pepper, or a swirl of olive oil over the soup before serving.
Step-by-Step Recipe Card
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb. dried split green peas
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 8 oz. cubed ham (or ham hock/bone)
- 1 quart chicken (or vegetable) stock
- 4 sprigs thyme
- 2 sprigs parsley, plus extra for garnish
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups water
- Instructions:
- Rinse and sort peas, discard debris.
- Add peas, vegetables, ham, broth, and water into slow cooker.
- Tie herbs with twine and add to pot.
- Cook 4–5 hours on high or 8–10 hours on low until peas are very tender.
- Remove herb bundle, season with salt/pepper, and serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make split pea soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit the ham. For a smoky touch, add one teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?
No soaking is required for split peas, and they typically break down during the long, slow cook.
How do I prevent the soup from getting too thick?
Add extra broth or water near the end of cooking or after reheating, as split pea soup thickens as it cools.
Can I use a ham bone instead of diced ham?
Yes, a ham bone imparts excellent flavor and body to the soup. Add at the start and remove before serving, picking off any meat for the soup.
How long does split pea soup keep?
Stored in the fridge, it lasts about 5 days. Freeze in airtight portions for up to 3 months.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough (at least 6 quarts for a doubled batch). Cooking time may increase slightly.
Conclusion
Slow cooker split pea soup with ham is the ultimate in comfort food. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe worth returning to again and again, especially when chilly weather calls for something soul-warming and satisfying. This timeless classic brings families together around the table, delivering nourishment and tradition in every spoonful. Whether you’re making it after a holiday ham or just craving a bowl of soothing soup, this easy split pea recipe is sure to become a staple.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37936345/slow-cooker-split-pea-soup-recipe/
- https://www.simplyhappyfoodie.com/slow-cooker-split-pea-soup/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a38771765/split-pea-soup-with-ham-recipe/
- https://kitchenconfidante.com/slow-cooker-split-pea-soup-recipe
- https://parade.com/1129086/kristamarshall/slow-cooker-split-pea-soup-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/g37406365/crock-pot-soup-recipes/
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