There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of pea soup. It’s one of those dishes that feels like it has stood the test of time, passed down from generation to generation, and yet it never loses its charm. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or as a hearty meal to fuel you through a busy week, pea soup brings both nostalgia and satisfaction. And when it comes to simplicity and flavor, you can’t go wrong with Pea Soup Andersen’s recipe.
Pea Soup Andersen’s, a beloved California institution, has been serving up bowls of this classic comfort food for decades. Known for their rich, velvety texture and well-balanced flavors, their recipe is the gold standard. But let’s face it, who always has the time to stand over a pot and babysit it on the stove for hours? That’s where a slow cooker comes in. Using a slow cooker allows all those ingredients to meld together beautifully, without you needing to do much at all.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through how to make a Pea Soup Andersen’s-inspired recipe using your slow cooker. We’ll go over everything you need, step by step, from the ingredients to expert tips that will help you get that perfect, savory bowl of pea soup every time. And the best part? You won’t be chained to the kitchen all day.
So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive in!
Pea Soup Andersen’s Slow Cooker Recipe
This slow cooker version of Pea Soup Andersen’s will be your new go-to for an easy, no-fuss meal that delivers on both flavor and texture. The magic happens in the slow cooker as the split peas break down, the ham infuses everything with its smoky goodness, and the vegetables add layers of savory depth. Trust me, it’s a winner.
Ingredients Needed
To make this creamy and comforting pea soup, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb dried green split peas – These little green gems are the heart of any good pea soup. They break down beautifully when cooked low and slow, creating that smooth, rich texture.
- 1 ham bone or 2 cups diced ham – This will give your soup that signature smoky flavor. If you can’t find a ham bone, feel free to use pre-cooked ham or even leftover ham from a holiday dinner.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – The onion adds an aromatic base that enhances the soup’s flavor profile.
- 2 medium carrots, diced – A subtle sweetness from the carrots balances the savory richness of the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Celery brings in that fresh, crisp note that helps cut through the heavier elements of the soup.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth – The broth is the foundation of the soup. Using low-sodium broth helps keep the salt content in check, but feel free to use vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian version.
- 1 bay leaf – Bay leaves add an earthy, slightly floral note to the soup that works wonders as it simmers.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – This herb is a perfect complement to the earthy peas and smoky ham, offering a subtle herbal fragrance.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper rounds out the flavor and adds a bit of warmth.
- Salt to taste – Be careful with the salt if you’re using ham or ham bone, as these are often already quite salty.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get that slow cooker going. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious bowl of pea soup:
- Prep the Ingredients: Start by rinsing your split peas under cold water. You don’t need to soak them, but rinsing ensures you get rid of any dirt or debris. Chop your onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Toss the rinsed split peas, chopped vegetables, garlic, ham (or ham bone), bay leaf, thyme, pepper, and broth into the slow cooker.
- Set It and Forget It: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. If you’re using a ham bone, you’ll want to pull it out once the soup is finished cooking and shred any remaining meat off of it.
- Blend for Creaminess (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup right in the slow cooker. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and puree it, then return it to the pot.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and add salt if necessary. Serve it hot with a side of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break it down:
- Green Split Peas: They’re mild, slightly sweet, and full of fiber and protein. Their ability to break down and form a creamy base is what gives the soup its signature texture.
- Ham: The smoky, savory notes from the ham are what elevate this soup from good to great. The ham bone adds even more flavor as it slowly infuses the broth.
- Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and celery (known as the “mirepoix” in French cooking) provide a classic, aromatic base for any soup or stew. They also help balance the richness of the ham and peas.
- Herbs: Bay leaves and thyme bring an earthy depth to the soup without overpowering the other ingredients. They work to create a harmonious, complex flavor profile.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skip the Rinsing: Even though you don’t need to soak the split peas, make sure to rinse them well before cooking. This helps eliminate any dust or impurities.
- Adjust the Consistency: If your soup ends up too thick after cooking, simply add a bit more broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Add More Smoky Flavor: For an extra smoky punch, consider using a smoked ham hock instead of a regular ham bone. This will bring even more richness to the soup.
- For a Vegetarian Option: Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. You can even add a smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that mimics the depth the ham would provide.
Recipe Variations
If you want to get creative with your pea soup, here are a few variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. The spice will contrast beautifully with the richness of the soup.
- Creamy Version: After blending, stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to make the soup extra creamy and indulgent.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to give the soup a unique flavor. Adding fresh herbs at the end of cooking adds brightness.
- Vegetarian Version: If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can make this soup with smoked tofu or tempeh to capture that smoky essence without the meat.
Final Words
Pea soup may seem simple, but there’s something magical about the way these humble ingredients come together to create a meal that’s more than the sum of its parts. With the slow cooker, you get all the flavors that are characteristic of the original Pea Soup Andersen’s recipe, but without the need for constant attention. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to enjoy something warm and nourishing, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients For Andersen’s Pea Soup Slow Cooker Recipe?
The main ingredients for Andersen’s pea soup slow cooker recipe typically include split peas, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, ham or ham hock, bay leaves, and vegetable or chicken broth. Some recipes also add thyme, pepper, and salt to enhance flavor.
Can I Use A Ham Bone Instead Of A Ham Hock In The Slow Cooker Pea Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute a ham bone for a ham hock in the slow cooker pea soup recipe. Both provide a similar depth of flavor, but the ham bone may require slightly longer cooking time to fully release its flavor.
How Long Should I Cook Andersen’s Pea Soup In The Slow Cooker?
For Andersen’s pea soup recipe in a slow cooker, it generally takes about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. The split peas should be tender, and the soup should have a thick, hearty consistency.
Can I Make Andersen’s Pea Soup Without Ham For A Vegetarian Version?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Andersen’s pea soup by omitting the ham or ham hock and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To add more flavor, you can incorporate smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
What Type Of Split Peas Should I Use For This Recipe?
Green split peas are traditionally used in Andersen’s pea soup recipe, though yellow split peas can be used as an alternative. Green peas provide a slightly heartier texture, while yellow peas tend to be a bit milder in flavor.
Do I Need To Soak The Split Peas Before Cooking In The Slow Cooker?
No, soaking the split peas is not necessary for this slow cooker recipe. Split peas tend to break down and cook evenly during the slow cooking process, so you can add them directly to the pot.
Can I Add Potatoes To The Pea Soup In The Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can add diced potatoes to the pea soup in the slow cooker for extra texture and heartiness. Potatoes will absorb some of the flavors and help thicken the soup as it cooks.
How Can I Thicken The Pea Soup If It Turns Out Too Thin?
If your pea soup is too thin, you can thicken it by using an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup. Alternatively, you can mash some of the peas with a potato masher or cook the soup on high for an additional 30 minutes to help reduce excess liquid.
Can I Freeze The Leftover Pea Soup?
Yes, leftover pea soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Andersen’s Pea Soup?
Andersen’s pea soup pairs well with crusty bread or a warm loaf of sourdough. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the rich, hearty soup. You could also serve it with a cheese sandwich or grilled cheese for a comforting meal.