When you think of a warm, hearty meal that envelops you like a favorite blanket on a chilly day, Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup immediately comes to mind. This dish combines the earthy flavor of split peas with tender vegetables and savory ham, creating a delightful medley that warms your soul. Prepared effortlessly in a slow cooker, it allows you to experience the joy of home-cooked comfort without the fuss.
Why We Love This Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup Recipe
There’s something truly special about this Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup recipe that resonates with many of us. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot, set it, and let it work its magic over the course of the day. The flavor development over the extended cooking time intensifies, leaving you with a soup that’s rich and hearty. Additionally, this soup is a powerhouse of nutrition. Packed with protein from the split peas and ham, along with essential vitamins from the vegetables, it’s nourishing in every scoop. As a bonus, it’s perfect for meal prep; you can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Whether you’re seeking a comforting dish after a long day or planning a cozy dinner for your family, this recipe will become a cherished addition to your repertoire.
Ingredients about Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
To create this delightful Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup, here’s what you’ll need:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 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
Creating your soup is as simple as following a few easy steps. Begin by rinsing the dried split peas thoroughly under cool water. This process ensures that any impurities are washed away and helps to maintain the soup’s clarity and flavor.
Next, chop your onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. You want these vegetables finely diced, as they will blend seamlessly into the soup, infusing it with flavor. Once chopped, transfer them into your crockpot. To this aromatic foundation, add the rinsed split peas, your choice of a meaty ham bone or diced cooked ham, the chicken broth, and the water. This combination will create a rich and satisfying base for your soup.
Now, enhance the flavor profile by tossing in the bay leaf, ground black pepper, and dried thyme. Gently stir the mixture, ensuring the split peas are well submerged in the liquid. Proper submersion is crucial because it allows the peas to cook evenly and thoroughly.
With everything in your crockpot, cover it securely and set your cooker to low heat. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking not only develops the flavors but also results in beautifully tender peas that break down into a creamy consistency.
When the cooking time is up, it’s time for a little final touch. Carefully remove the bay leaf, and if you desire a smoother texture, consider using an immersion blender. This tool allows you to blend the soup right in the pot without the hassle of transferring it to another container.
At this stage, your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is ready to be served! Pair it with some crusty bread for a fulfilling meal that embodies comfort in every spoonful.
How to Serve Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Serving your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup offers a fantastic opportunity to make the meal feel extra special. Begin by ladling generous portions into bowls. The vibrant green or yellow hue of the soup contrasted with bits of ham and vegetables creates a visually appealing presentation.
For an extra sprinkle of freshness, you can garnish each bowl with a bit of chopped fresh parsley. This vibrant touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the earthy soup.
Accompany your bowls of soup with slices of crusty bread. A warm baguette or artisanal loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of deliciousness. You could also serve it alongside a simple side salad, providing a crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
Consider offering condiments on the side as well; a dash of hot sauce or freshly ground black pepper allows each person to customize their flavor to their liking. With these simple serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful dining experience centered around your comforting masterpiece.
Expert Tips: Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
For a truly outstanding bowl of Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Quality Ingredients Matter: The flavors of the soup hinge on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh, seasonal vegetables and high-quality chicken broth. If you have homemade broth, even better!
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: While it might be tempting to cook it on high for a quicker meal, the slow cooking method truly enhances the flavor. It allows the split peas to break down gently and meld with other ingredients.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you like your soup thicker, consider adding less liquid or blending it more to achieve that velvety consistency. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add additional broth or water.
- Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different. Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as you see fit—feel free to incorporate a bit more salt, pepper, or herbs.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Anytime you can add fresh herbs, do it. They brighten up the flavor and add a lovely aromatic touch. Thyme works wonderfully, but experimenting with a dash of rosemary or sage can elevate your dish.
By following these expert tips, you can ensure that your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is a hit every time you prepare it.
How to Store Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Storing your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is just as simple as preparing it. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to date your container to keep track of how long it has been stored.
If you’ve made a large batch or have leftovers, consider freezing portions for later use. The soup can be stored in the freezer in airtight containers or individual freezer-safe bags for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
One important step: Beans and legumes, when frozen, can change texture slightly. To maintain the best quality, consume your frozen soup within the recommended time.
Variation of Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
While the classic Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is hard to beat, there are countless variations you can try to mix things up:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the meat entirely for a plant-based option. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to keep the profile hearty and satisfying.
- Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This variability can add a lovely kick to the traditional flavors.
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Instead of thyme, try adding dill, or incorporate a bit of fresh basil for a delightful twist.
- Creamy Indulgence: For those moments when you’re seeking indulgence, add a little cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking time. This addition will yield a richer texture and a hint of creaminess in every bowl.
- Additional Protein: Mixing things up with other proteins can be delicious too. A handful of shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey can make for a delightful variation.
Your Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup can become a versatile dish that changes with the seasons or your mood.
FAQ
What is Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup?
Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup is a hearty soup made from dried split peas, vegetables, and meat, typically ham, all cooked slowly in a crockpot. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for cozy meals.
How long does Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup take to cook?
When cooked on low in a crockpot, it typically takes about 6 to 8 hours for Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup to reach the perfect texture and flavor.
Can I make Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. There’s no compromise on taste!
How do I store Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup leftovers?
After the soup has cooled, transfer it into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to three months.
Can I add different ingredients to my Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup?
Definitely! You can customize your soup by adding various vegetables, spices, or proteins according to your preference. Experiment with herbs or try making it spicy!
What can I serve with Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup?
Your soup pairs beautifully with slices of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some cornbread. Any of these would complement the hearty nature of the dish.
Comforting Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz dried split peas (yellow or green) Rinse thoroughly before use.
- 5 cups chicken broth Use homemade for best flavor.
- 2 cups water Adjust as needed for desired consistency.
- 1 each meaty ham bone or cooked ham, diced Use as preferred for flavor.
- 3 each celery stalks, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 each bay leaf Remove before serving.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme Fresh thyme can be substituted.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cool water.
- Chop the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic finely.
- Transfer the chopped vegetables to the crockpot.
- Add the rinsed split peas, ham bone or diced ham, chicken broth, and water to the crockpot.
- Toss in bay leaf, ground black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Gently stir the mixture to ensure the split peas are well submerged.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat, cooking for about 6 to 8 hours.
- After cooking, remove the bay leaf.
- If desired, use an immersion blender to achieve a smoother texture.
Serving
- Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve with crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.
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