Split pea soup is a classic comfort food that warms your soul and fills your stomach with hearty goodness. In Moana’s Kitchen, we take a simple ingredient list and transform it into a soothing, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe not only showcases the deliciousness of split peas but also enriches your home with the delightful aroma of simmering vegetables and savory ham. With the convenience of a crockpot, you can easily prepare this dish and let it do the work for you while you attend to other tasks.
Why We Love This Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
There are countless reasons to love Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make! You simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot, switch it on, and let it do the rest. This hands-off approach means you can focus on other things while the soup develops rich flavors. The combination of tender split peas, savory ham, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that is nourishing and satisfying. Plus, split peas are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this soup a healthful choice. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner, meal prepping for the week, or enjoying a warm bowl on a chilly day, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients about Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
To whip up a delightful batch of Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 20 oz dried split peas (yellow or green)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup Directions
Making Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Begin by rinsing your dried split peas thoroughly under cool water to remove any dust or impurities. This ensures that your soup will have a clean and fresh flavor. After rinsing, set the split peas aside.
Next, take your large onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Chop them finely and add them directly to the crockpot. The aromas of these vegetables start to meld together, creating the perfect base for your soup. Now, add the rinsed split peas into the crockpot, followed by the meaty ham bone or diced cooked ham. Both options lend different yet fantastic flavors to your soup, so choose according to your preference.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and water. This liquid will help the peas cook down and break apart, creating a smooth and luscious texture for your soup. Toss in the bay leaf, ground black pepper, and dried thyme for seasoning. These herbs and spices enhance the soup’s flavor profile, adding depth to each spoonful.
Once all the ingredients are in the crockpot, stir gently to combine everything. Make sure the split peas are submerged beneath the liquid to ensure even cooking. Now, cover the crockpot with its lid and set it on low heat. Depending on your crockpot model, cooking on low should take around 6 to 8 hours. Feel free to check in occasionally, but avoid removing the lid too often, as this can let heat escape and prolong the cooking time.
As the soup cooks, the split peas will soften perfectly, and the flavors will meld beautifully. After the cooking time is complete, remove the bay leaf and stir the soup. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender directly in the crockpot to puree the soup to your desired texture. Alternatively, you may serve it as is for a heartier feel, with visible pieces of vegetables and ham. Either way, dig in and enjoy this delightful split pea soup!
How to Serve Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Serving your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is just as easy as making it! Start by ladling a generous portion into a bowl. This soup is great on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience by adding a few simple garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a burst of freshness that brightens the dish. If you like, you can also serve it with some crusty bread or rolls on the side for dipping. The combination of warm soup and crusty bread embodies comfort food at its finest.
Consider creating a cozy dining experience by setting the table with bowls, spoons, and even a warm blanket if you’re enjoying the soup on a chilly evening. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it alone, your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Expert Tips: Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
To get the most out of your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup, consider these expert tips. First, remember to rinse the split peas thoroughly. This step not only removes any impurities but also helps ensure a clean flavor in your soup. If you prefer a meatier flavor, feel free to use more ham or reserve some to add at the end of cooking for a chunkier texture.
If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked or canned ham can save you a lot of effort while still providing delicious flavor. For those who enjoy their food with a little kick, don’t hesitate to add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Finally, adjust the seasonings to suit your personal taste. You can enhance the soup with additional herbs like rosemary or sage, allowing you to customize each bowl to perfection.
How to Store Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Storing your leftover Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is straightforward. Begin by allowing the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an air-tight container. When stored properly in the refrigerator, the soup should last for about 3 to 4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead.
For freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers and make sure to leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Variation of Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
One of the best features of Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is its versatility. There are several variations you can try based on your preferences and available ingredients. For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the ham and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can boost the protein by adding more vegetables like diced potatoes or green beans.
If you’re in the mood for something extra, consider adding grains such as quinoa or barley to this hearty soup for additional texture and nutrition. For a creamier version, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving to create a luxurious finish.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, including curry powder or smoked paprika, to change the flavor profile and make the soup unique to your taste. Don’t hesitate to play around with this comforting dish to discover what combinations you love the most!
FAQ
What is Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup?
Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is a hearty dish made with split peas, vegetables, and ham, cooked slowly in a crockpot for rich flavors and creamy texture.
How long does it take to cook Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup?
Typically, this soup takes about 6 to 8 hours to cook on low heat in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to blend while the peas become tender.
Can I make Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How should I store leftover Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup?
Once cooled, store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rolls, or a simple green salad. You can also enjoy it on its own as a filling meal.
Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz dried split peas (yellow or green) Rinsed thoroughly before use.
- 5 cups chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 2 cups water
- 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups cooked ham, diced Use more ham for a meatier flavor.
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cool water and set aside.
- Chop the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic finely and add them to the crockpot.
- Add the rinsed split peas to the crockpot, along with the ham bone or diced cooked ham.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water.
- Add the bay leaf, ground black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the split peas are submerged in the liquid.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it on low heat, cooking for 6 to 8 hours.
- Check occasionally, but avoid removing the lid frequently.
Finishing
- Once cooking is complete, remove the bay leaf. Stir the soup and use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if desired.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, and with crusty bread or rolls on the side.
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