Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

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Winter brings with it a bone-chilling cold that seeps into your very core, leaving you yearning for warmth and comfort. And what could be more comforting than a steaming bowl of slow cooker split pea soup? Its thick, velvety texture and rich flavors have the power to transport you to a cozy haven, where chilly days are forgotten and all that matters is the nourishing delight in your hands.

Bowl of soup with split pea soup. — Split Pea Soup – Slow Cooker Recipe

As a kid, my mom cooked lentils, beans, and other legumes all the time. We had it in curries, patties, or soups at least once a week. Back then, mom had these in the pantry, so there was always something to cook.

These are not just delicious but also nutritious! The slow cooking process allows these nutrients to be released and absorbed more efficiently, resulting in a nourishing and satisfying meal. You enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value by simmering it with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices.

Slow-cooker split pea soup not only warms you up on a cold winter day but also provides a nourishing elixir of essential nutrients. The nutritional benefits of split peas make this soup not just a delicious and comforting dish, but also a wholesome addition to your diet.

Why make this soup?

Slow-cooked split pea soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days, offering unbeatable warmth and satisfaction. Its nutritional benefits, effortless preparation, and versatility make it the best recipe for those frosty winter days.
Split peas are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this soup a nutritious choice that can help keep you full and satisfied for longer periods.
The combination of aromatic vegetables (onion, garlic, and celery) with herbs and spices offers a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the earthy taste of the split peas. Using a ham bone (if non-vegetarian) adds a smoky richness that elevates the soup to another level of deliciousness.
It is a base recipe that can easily be customized. You can add more vegetables, try different herbs, or add a splash of cream for a richer texture.

Soup bowl with split pea soup. — Split Pea Soup – Slow Cooker Recipe

Ingredients and substitutes

First and foremost, the star of the show is the split peas themselves. These legumes add a creamy and velvety texture to the soup while imparting a rich, earthy flavor. However, if you prefer a different legume or have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the split peas with lentils or even chickpeas. Each legume brings its own unique taste profile, so feel free to experiment and discover your favorite variation.
Onions and celery serve as the flavor backbone of this soup, providing a delightful sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can substitute them with leeks for a milder flavor or shallots for a subtle twist. For those with celery allergies or simply seeking variety, you can replace them with sweet potatoes or parsnips to add a touch of sweetness and complexity.
To enhance the soup’s aromatic profile, the recipe typically includes garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. While these ingredients contribute to the overall taste, you can personalize the flavors by experimenting with other herbs and spices. Consider adding a sprig of rosemary or a pinch of cumin to introduce a different dimension to your soup. Get creative and let your taste buds guide you.
Regarding the choice of stock, it’s common to use vegetable or chicken stock to infuse the soup with a rich and savory taste. However, for vegetarians or vegans, vegetable stock is the obvious choice. You can also use mushroom stock to give the soup an earthy undertone.
A sharp cheese with a distinct flavor, such as Parmesan and cheddar, helps enhance the flavors. And yes, you can substitute it with any other hard cheese or vegetarian varieties too..
Lastly, the selection of meat in this recipe adds hearty protein and depth of flavor. Traditional recipes often call for ham hocks or bacon, which lend a smoky and salty note to the soup. However, if you prefer a vegetarian or leaner option, you can leave the meat altogether or substitute it with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.

Ingredients for a slow cooker soup. — Split Pea Soup – Slow Cooker Recipe

Step-by-step: Slow cooker split pea soup

Split peas – Sort and wash the split peas. Drain and set aside.
Pro tip – Time permitting, soak the split peas in warm water for 30 minutes to an hour. This softens the grains and makes a wonderfully creamy soup.
Add all slow cooker ingredients to the slow cooker. Split peas, onion, garlic, celery, parsley, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Add the broth or stock – stir well, making sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 5 to 6 hours. When you open the slow cooker, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprig.
Pro tip – I like an almost smooth and creamy consistency, so I do 8 hours overnight.
Blend soup- For a wholesome texture, use a potato masher to mash all the ingredients.- For a smooth soup, use a hand blender (this is what I do).
Combine the cornstarch and milk, then add it to the soup. Combine well and continue to cook for 30 minutes on high.
Pro tip – The cornstarch will prevent the milk from curdling in the soup.
Finally, add the cheddar cheese and stir until well combined. Check and adjust seasoning.
Serve garnished with more cheese or some whipped cream (optional).

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Frequently asked questions

How long will this slow cooker split pea soup keep?

This soup can stay in the fridge for 4 to 5 days. You can also freeze it in the freezer for up to a month.

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?

Yes, you can definitely use yellow split peas instead of green. While green split peas have a slightly stronger flavor, yellow split peas offer a milder taste and a creamier texture. Both varieties are nutritious and will result in a delicious and hearty soup. Feel free to experiment and find your preference!

Can I use different types of ham in the soup?

Absolutely! While traditional split pea soup is made with ham hocks or a ham bone, you can use other types of ham as well. Diced cooked ham, ham steak, or even leftover holiday ham can be used to add a delicious smoky flavor to your soup. Adjust the amount of ham according to your personal preference to create the perfect balance of flavors.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version of split pea soup, simply omit the ham or any meat-based ingredients and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes to enhance the flavors. With a few modifications, you can create a satisfying meatless version of this classic comfort food.

How do you get rid of gas from split pea soup?

If you’ve ever had issues with stomach pain when eating dried beans or lentils, then soaking them before you cook may prove very helpful. Dried beans and lentils, including split peas, contain complex sugars that our human body finds hard to digest. The gas produced when absorbing them can cause bloating and flatulence. Soaking helps release some of these sugars into the water, which is why soaking, re-washing, and draining do help very much.

What side dish do you serve along with this soup?

For our family, a side salad or sauteed veggies with some homemade fresh bread on the side makes a complete meal. Try
garlic sesame asparagus, parmesan asparagus, or sesame green beans. Some cheesy baked eggplant slices, lemon rosemary potatoes, or roasted dill potatoes

Veena Azmanov