There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a bowl, and when it comes to comfort food, split pea soup stands out as a timeless classic. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Making it in the Instant Pot takes this dish to a whole new level of convenience. In a fraction of the time it would take on the stove, you can have a rich, savory bowl of soup that’s full of texture and depth.
Split pea soup, traditionally made with dried split peas, is often enhanced with a variety of ingredients like ham, vegetables, and seasonings. With the Instant Pot, you get to keep all the great taste of this classic dish while trimming down on cooking time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe ensures your split pea soup turns out perfectly every single time. Let’s dive into the recipe and break it all down!
Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe
Here’s a foolproof way to make split pea soup in your Instant Pot. This recipe delivers a thick, rich, and flavorful soup in just under an hour. It’s so simple, and the Instant Pot does most of the work for you.
Ingredients Needed
For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. The beauty of split pea soup is that it’s simple, yet it offers a lot of flexibility based on what you have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound dried split peas (green or yellow, both work great)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium potato, diced (optional but adds a nice texture)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 cups ham (diced, optional but adds a wonderful depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté The Veggies
- Begin by turning the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot and let it heat up.
- Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add The Remaining Ingredients
- To the pot, add the split peas, diced potato (if using), bay leaf, thyme, oregano (if using), black pepper, and broth. Stir everything together, making sure there’s no burnt food stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- If you’re using ham, add it in now too.
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Pressure Cook
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
- Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 25 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
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Final Touches
- Open the Instant Pot lid and remove the bay leaf.
- Stir the soup, breaking up some of the peas for a thicker texture. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
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Serve & Enjoy
- Serve your delicious, comforting split pea soup with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish!
Ingredient Insights
- Dried Split Peas: These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber, making them not only filling but also highly nutritious. They’re also naturally gluten-free and low in fat. The peas soften up as they cook, turning into a thick, creamy base for the soup.
- Vegetable Broth: Using broth instead of water brings in a deeper, richer flavor. Vegetable broth works best for a vegetarian or vegan option, but chicken broth adds a savory depth if you prefer that flavor profile. If you want a richer soup, you can use bone broth.
- Ham: This is optional, but if you love a smoky, savory flavor, adding diced ham can elevate the soup. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham from a holiday dinner or roast. If you’re not a fan of ham, consider smoked sausage or even bacon for that hint of smokiness.
- Herbs: Thyme, oregano, and bay leaves are classic herbs for this soup. Thyme has a subtle earthy flavor, while oregano adds a little bit of an aromatic, slightly bitter bite. Bay leaves infuse the soup with a mild, woodsy flavor as it simmers.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Split Peas: If your split peas are too old, they may not cook properly. Always check the bag date and use fresh peas for the best results. If you find that your soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, let it sit for a few minutes after opening the pot to allow the peas to continue breaking down.
- Blend for a Creamier Soup: If you like a super creamy consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup a little bit. Alternatively, you can blend about 1/3 of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot. This gives it a velvety texture.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Split pea soup actually improves with time! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. The soup may thicken as it sits, but you can thin it out with a little extra broth or water when reheating.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of split pea soup lies in its versatility. Here are a few ways to mix things up:
- Vegan Split Pea Soup: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth, adding in more veggies like zucchini or parsnips for extra flavor and texture.
- Spicy Split Pea Soup: If you enjoy a bit of heat, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or even a small diced chili pepper.
- Smoky Split Pea Soup: Try adding a tablespoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a deeper, more smoky flavor without the meat.
- Extra Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra vegetables? You can toss in some spinach, kale, or even sweet potatoes for an added nutritional punch.
Final Words
This Instant Pot split pea soup recipe is truly a winner in terms of flavor, nutrition, and ease. It’s the kind of meal you can set and forget, knowing that the Instant Pot will do its magic and give you a wholesome, satisfying dish in no time. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight meal, looking to prep some healthy lunches, or simply craving something nourishing, this soup is a perfect choice.
The hearty combination of split peas, vegetables, and seasoning comes together in such a satisfying way that each spoonful feels like a comforting embrace. And with so many ways to customize the soup, you’ll never get bored of making it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and add-ins!
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For An Instant Pot Split Pea Soup?
To make an Instant Pot split pea soup, you’ll need split peas, carrots, onions, garlic, vegetable broth (or chicken broth), celery, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include ham or smoked sausage for added flavor.
Can I Use Dried Split Peas Instead Of Fresh For The Soup?
Yes, dried split peas are typically used for this recipe. Be sure to rinse them well to remove any dirt or debris before cooking.
How Long Should I Cook Split Pea Soup In The Instant Pot?
Cook the split pea soup on high pressure for 15 minutes. Afterward, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
Can I Make Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Without Meat?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be rich and flavorful from the split peas and seasonings.
Do I Need To Soak The Split Peas Before Cooking In The Instant Pot?
No, soaking split peas is not necessary when using an Instant Pot. The pressure cooking process helps them soften quickly, so soaking is optional.
What If My Split Pea Soup Is Too Thick After Cooking?
If your soup is too thick, simply add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You can also use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a creamier texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Instant Pot Split Pea Soup?
Yes, you can add vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or zucchini. Just chop them into small pieces to ensure even cooking. Add them to the pot at the same time as the other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftover Instant Pot Split Pea Soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Split Peas In This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen split peas. However, make sure they are thoroughly defrosted before adding them to the Instant Pot. This might slightly affect the cooking time, so check for tenderness during the pressure release phase.
How Can I Make Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add ingredients like red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce also enhances the heat and flavor.