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Best Pea Soup in the World
Sana Yousaf

Best Pea Soup Recipe in the World

A hearty, creamy split pea soup packed with smoky flavor and wholesome ingredients, perfect for cozy nights or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb dried green split peas rinsed and sorted; yellow split peas for a 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; use vegetable broth and smoked paprika for vegetarian
  • 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian
  • 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)

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. 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.
  4. Add split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are soft and soup thickens. Add potato halfway through, if using.
  6. 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.

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