When the chill of winter settles in or you’re simply craving something hearty and comforting, Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup recipe should be your go-to. Known for her simple yet elegant approach to cooking, Ina has a knack for transforming humble ingredients into something that feels luxurious. Split pea soup, a dish with centuries of history, is the perfect example of how Ina can take a classic, hearty meal and elevate it.
This soup is an iconic blend of split peas, vegetables, and savory seasonings that blend together to create a creamy, satisfying bowl of comfort. Ina’s version is particularly special due to its balance of flavors and textures, making it one of the most loved recipes from Barefoot Contessa. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a cozy starter for a dinner party, this soup has it all.
So let’s break it down-step by step-so you can make a pot of this deliciousness in your own kitchen.
Ina Garten Split Pea Soup Recipe
Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup is a nourishing dish that’s also incredibly easy to make. It’s designed to be a one-pot wonder that requires minimal prep, but provides maximum flavor. Here’s how she does it:
Ingredients Needed
This recipe is a straightforward one, and you likely already have many of the ingredients in your pantry. Ina keeps it simple but deeply flavorful. Here’s what you need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and creating the base flavor.
- 1 large onion, diced – A key aromatic vegetable that forms the foundation of this soup.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – Adds a nice crunch and flavor balance.
- 2 large carrots, diced – They bring sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better.
- 1 pound dried split peas – The star of the show! These peas will break down and thicken the soup as they cook.
- 10 cups chicken stock – Ina uses chicken stock for depth of flavor, but you can substitute vegetable stock if you prefer a vegetarian option.
- 1 bay leaf – Adds a subtle earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A classic herb that brings earthiness and warmth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste, of course.
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or croutons – For some added color and texture.
Cooking Instructions
Ina’s recipe is simple enough that even novice cooks can follow along, but the depth of flavor is surprising given how straightforward the method is. Let’s go through it step by step:
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook them for about 8-10 minutes, until they are softened and fragrant. This is your flavor base.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
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Add The Split Peas And Stock
- Stir in the split peas and give them a quick toss with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken stock, and stir in the bay leaf and thyme.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot partially and let it cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened up.
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Blend The Soup (optional)
- After the soup has cooked, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot for a smoother texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Some people prefer to leave it chunky, so feel free to skip this step if you like more texture.
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Final Seasoning
- Once the soup is to your desired consistency, taste it and adjust with salt and pepper. Discard the bay leaf, and it’s ready to serve!
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Serve It Up
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or croutons if you wish, and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup recipe doesn’t use any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. However, each ingredient has a role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Split Peas: These legumes are the star of the show, rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins. Split peas cook down into a soft, creamy texture, which is essential for the consistency of the soup.
- Chicken Stock: The deep flavor of chicken stock provides the necessary base, adding richness and complexity to the soup. You could substitute with vegetable stock for a lighter or vegetarian version, but the chicken stock really elevates the overall flavor.
- Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion): These classic aromatics are essential in building a solid flavor base. The natural sweetness of the carrots complements the earthy peas, while the celery adds a light, refreshing crunch. The onion and garlic bring savory depth.
- Bay Leaf & Thyme: These herbs bring earthiness to the soup without overpowering the peas. Bay leaves add a subtle aromatic complexity, while thyme complements the peas with a fragrant, woody flavor.
Expert Tips
To get the most out of your Split Pea Soup, here are some pro tips that will take your dish to the next level:
- Soak the Split Peas: While not necessary for this recipe, soaking your split peas for a few hours or overnight can help them cook faster and make the soup even creamier.
- Season in Layers: Start with a generous amount of salt and pepper early on and adjust at the end. Layering the seasoning ensures that the flavors meld together better.
- Use a Quality Stock: The stock is a large part of the flavor, so opt for a good-quality homemade or store-bought chicken stock. If you’re using store-bought, check the sodium levels and adjust accordingly.
- Make it Ahead: Split pea soup often tastes better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. You can easily store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Add Protein: To make this soup even heartier, consider adding some cooked ham or bacon. Both bring a salty, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the peas.
Recipe Variations
Though Ina’s version is perfect as is, there are many ways to customize split pea soup to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas for variations:
- Smoky Split Pea Soup: Add a small piece of smoked ham hock or smoked sausage during the cooking process. The smokiness will infuse the soup and give it an irresistible depth of flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken stock and use vegetable stock. You could also add some diced potatoes to give the soup a bit of heartiness without the meat.
- Curried Split Pea Soup: Add a tablespoon or two of curry powder for an unexpected twist. The combination of curry and peas is a match made in heaven, adding warmth and a slight spiciness.
- Herbed Split Pea Soup: For an herbal infusion, add a sprig of rosemary or sage along with the thyme. These herbs lend an aromatic, piney flavor that complements the peas beautifully.
Final Words
Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup is the kind of dish that brings you back to the basics: nourishing, comforting, and incredibly flavorful. There’s nothing complicated about it, yet it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or for a larger crowd, this recipe is bound to impress.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup Recipe?
The key ingredients include split peas, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, olive oil, and chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version).
Can I Use Dried Green Peas Instead Of Yellow Peas For Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup?
Yes, you can substitute dried green peas for yellow peas. Both work well, but yellow peas tend to be slightly sweeter, while green peas have a more earthy flavor.
How Long Should I Cook The Split Pea Soup In Ina Garten’s Recipe?
The soup should be simmered for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas have fully softened and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
Can I Make Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup Recipe Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I Freeze Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What Type Of Broth Does Ina Garten Recommend For Split Pea Soup?
Ina Garten typically uses chicken broth for a rich flavor, but you can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version of the soup.
Is Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup Recipe Vegetarian?
Ina Garten’s recipe is not inherently vegetarian because it uses chicken broth. However, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth and omitting any meat additions.
Can I Add Meat To Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup?
Yes, you can add meat such as ham or smoked sausage to enhance the flavor. Ina Garten’s recipe includes the option to add ham, which pairs wonderfully with the split peas.
What Type Of Vegetables Can I Add To Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup?
In addition to the basic vegetables in the recipe, you can add extras like leeks, parsnips, or potatoes to customize the soup to your liking.
How Can I Adjust The Thickness Of Ina Garten’s Split Pea Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the cooking liquid by simmering the soup longer. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or water as needed.