Craving a warm, hearty bowl of comfort food that’s both budget-friendly and bursting with flavor? Look no further than the best pea soup recipe in the world! This classic split pea soup is a family favorite, passed down through generations in my household, where chilly evenings called for a steaming pot of this soul-warming dish. With its rich, velvety texture and savory depth, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re a meat-lover or prefer a vegetarian twist, this gluten-free, high-protein soup can be tailored to your needs. Ready in under an hour, it’s a one-pot wonder that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how to make the best pea soup that’s sure to become your go-to comfort meal!
How to Make the Best Pea Soup
Creating the world’s best pea soup starts with quality ingredients and a few simple techniques. This recipe uses split peas for their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors. The key is to build layers of taste with aromatics, protein, and seasoning, while keeping the process straightforward. Below, you’ll locate the whole thing you want to whip up this scrumptious dish, from components to step by step instructions.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb dried green split peas (rinsed and sorted; yellow split peas work too for a slightly sweeter flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter for richer flavor)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 smoked ham hock (or 6 oz diced bacon for a smokier taste; see vegetarian option below)
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian pea soup)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 medium potato, diced (for extra creaminess)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the protein: If using a ham hock, nestle it into the pot. If using bacon, cook until crispy, then remove half for garnish and leave the rest in the pot.
- Incorporate peas and broth: Add split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer the soup: Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and the soup thickens. If using a potato, add it halfway through cooking.
- Finish and serve: Remove the ham hock, shred any meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or reserved bacon bits.
What Makes Pea Soup Taste Better
The secret to elevating pea soup lies in layering flavors. Aromatics like onion, garlic, and celery create a savory base, while a smoked protein like ham or bacon adds depth. Don’t skip the thyme—it brings an earthy warmth that complements the peas. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the dish or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness. Using homemade broth instead of store-bought can also make a huge difference. Finally, patience is key: letting the soup simmer allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer, more cohesive taste.
What Peas to Use for Split Pea Soup
For the best texture and flavor, green split peas are the go-to choice for classic pea soup. They break down during cooking, creating a naturally creamy consistency without needing a blender. Yellow split peas are a great alternative if you want a slightly sweeter, milder flavor. Avoid whole peas, as they take much longer to cook and don’t achieve the same velvety texture. Always rinse and sort your split peas to remove any debris before cooking.
Is Pea Soup Better with Ham or Bacon?
The debate of ham vs. bacon in pea soup comes down to preference. A smoked ham hock infuses the soup with a deep, smoky flavor and tender bits of meat, perfect for a traditional, hearty dish. It’s budget-friendly and ideal for slow simmering. Bacon, on the other hand, adds a bolder, smokier punch and crispy texture if used as a garnish. If you’re short on time, bacon is quicker to cook, but it can make the soup slightly greasier. For the best of both worlds, try using a ham hock for the base and bacon bits for garnish. Ultimately, both elevate the soup, so choose based on your taste or what’s in your pantry!
How Long to Cook Split Pea Soup
The cooking time for split pea soup depends on the peas and heat level. On average, simmering for 45-60 minutes is sufficient for dried split peas to break down and create a creamy texture. If you’re using a pressure cooker, you can cut this down to 15-20 minutes. Check the soup periodically and stir to prevent sticking. If the peas are still firm after 60 minutes, continue simmering and add a bit more broth if needed. The soup is done when the peas are soft and the flavors have melded.
Can You Freeze Pea Soup?
Absolutely, pea soup freezes beautifully! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency. Freezing is a great way to meal-prep this hearty dish for quick weeknight dinners.
Why Is My Pea Soup Too Thick?
If your pea soup turns out too thick, it’s likely because the split peas absorbed more liquid than expected or the soup simmered too long. To fix this, gradually stir in more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a thinner soup from the start, increase the initial broth by 1-2 cups. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, but be careful not to over-process—it’s best with some texture!
How to Make Vegetarian Pea Soup
For a vegetarian pea soup that’s just as flavorful, skip the ham or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To mimic the smoky depth of meat, add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. You can also boost umami with a tablespoon of miso paste or nutritional yeast. For extra heartiness, include diced potatoes or mushrooms. The rest of the recipe remains the same—just follow the steps above, and you’ll have a delicious, meat-free version that’s perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to cut back on meat.
What to Serve with Pea Soup
Pea soup is a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
- A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Garlic bread for extra flavor.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a grilled cheese sandwich or cornbread.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
How to Store Leftover Pea Soup
To store leftover pea soup, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze as mentioned above. Always store garnishes like bacon bits or herbs separately to maintain their texture.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 6g
This nutrient-packed soup is high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a balanced meal. Adjust portion sizes or ingredients to meet specific dietary needs, like reducing sodium with low-sodium broth.
Final Thoughts
This best pea soup recipe in the world is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for any season. Whether you stick with the classic ham version or try the vegetarian twist, this recipe is foolproof, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a wholesome dish that’s sure to impress. Try it tonight, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below! What’s your favorite way to enjoy pea soup?
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Best Pea Soup Recipe in the World
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- If using a ham hock, nestle it into the pot. If using bacon, cook until crispy, remove half for garnish, and leave the rest in the pot.
- Add split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are soft and soup thickens. Add potato halfway through, if using.
- Remove ham hock, shred meat, and return to pot. Discard bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or bacon bits.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Substitutions: Use lentils instead of split peas or smoked turkey for a leaner protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Time-Saver: Use pre-chopped veggies or a pressure cooker (15-20 minutes).
- Texture Tip: Blend half the soup for a creamier consistency without losing texture.