When it comes to hearty, soul-warming meals, few dishes hit the mark quite like a bowl of pea soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just craving something comforting, pea soup delivers both in flavor and in nutrition. And if you’ve ever found yourself staring at a bag of dried split peas, wondering how to transform them into a tasty, satisfying dish, look no further. We’ve got the perfect solution for you: an Instant Pot pea soup recipe that’s simple, quick, and full of flavor. Using an Instant Pot cuts down the cooking time significantly while preserving all the rich, earthy flavors you’d expect from a classic pea soup. Let’s dive into the magic of this recipe, step by step!
Instant Pot Pea Soup Recipe
This Instant Pot pea soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With minimal prep work and maximum flavor, it’s an easy way to enjoy a delicious homemade meal in less time than traditional stovetop methods.
What You’ll Get
- Rich, velvety texture from the split peas
- Balanced, savory flavors from the ham and spices
- Quick cooking time thanks to the Instant Pot
- A healthy meal that’s full of fiber and protein
It’s a recipe that will become a go-to in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s very customizable, so if you want to swap out ingredients, you can easily make it your own.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients. They’re all basic, pantry staples, and together, they create a comforting bowl of pea soup.
- 1 lb dried split peas – This is the base of the soup. They cook quickly in the Instant Pot and provide that signature thick, creamy consistency.
- 1 onion, diced – Adds savory depth to the soup. You’ll sauté it first to bring out its sweetness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – For an aromatic base that’ll fill your kitchen with delicious smells.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped – These bring a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – A classic soup veggie that gives the dish some nice crunch and fresh flavor.
- 1 lb ham hock or ham bone, or 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham – Ham imparts a smoky richness that elevates the pea soup to the next level.
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth – Broth is essential for making the soup flavorful and giving it the right texture. The low-sodium option is great for keeping the dish healthier.
- 1 bay leaf – Adds subtle herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A perfect herb for soups and stews, it pairs beautifully with peas.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – These simple seasonings will bring the entire dish together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables before cooking.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s break down the step-by-step process to make this pea soup using your Instant Pot. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
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Prep The Ingredients
- Rinse the split peas in cold water, removing any debris.
- Dice the onion, carrots, and celery.
- Mince the garlic.
- If you’re using a ham hock, cut it in half for quicker cooking.
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Sauté The Veggies
- Turn the Instant Pot to ’Sauté’ mode and add olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes, until the veggies soften and the onion turns translucent.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Add The Remaining Ingredients
- Stir in the split peas, ham (or ham hock), thyme, and bay leaf.
- Pour in the broth, and season with salt and pepper. Make sure the ingredients are submerged in the liquid.
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Pressure Cook
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
- Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook mode for 15 minutes on high pressure.
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Release The Pressure
- Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
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Finish And Serve
- If you used a ham hock, remove it now and pull off any remaining meat from the bone, then return the meat to the soup.
- Give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can even blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to make it thicker, if you prefer.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this pea soup serves a purpose beyond just flavor. Let’s take a closer look at why they’re included and how they contribute to the final dish.
- Split peas: Naturally high in protein and fiber, split peas help create the hearty base of the soup. They’re also a great source of folate, iron, and potassium.
- Carrots: These root vegetables are packed with beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health and immune function. Their sweetness balances the savory depth of the ham.
- Ham: Whether you use a ham bone or diced ham, it adds an irresistible smoky flavor and richness. If you’re concerned about sodium, you can use low-sodium ham or skip it entirely.
- Broth: The broth forms the liquid foundation for the soup, infusing everything with savory goodness. Opt for low-sodium broth to keep the soup from becoming too salty.
- Bay leaf and thyme: Both of these herbs bring subtle, earthy undertones to the soup. Thyme, in particular, pairs beautifully with peas and ham.
Expert Tips
- Don’t skip the sauté step: Browning the onions, carrots, and celery first adds a layer of sweetness and complexity to the soup. Trust me-it’s worth the extra couple of minutes!
- Use a ham bone for more flavor: If you’ve got one lying around after a holiday meal, a ham bone will impart an even richer flavor. Just make sure to remove the bone before serving.
- Add extra vegetables: Want more color and nutrition? Throw in a handful of spinach, kale, or peas toward the end of cooking for extra greens.
- Let it rest: Pea soup tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it in advance. The flavors will continue to develop, and the texture will become even creamier.
- Customize the thickness: If you like a thinner soup, just add a little more broth or water. If you prefer a thicker, more creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.
Recipe Variations
Want to experiment with your Instant Pot pea soup? Here are a few variations to keep the dish exciting:
- Vegetarian: Skip the ham and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken. You can also add some smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat. A dash of hot sauce just before serving can also kick things up.
- Herb-forward: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to give your soup a unique twist.
- Creamy pea soup: After cooking, blend part of the soup until smooth for a creamy texture. You could also add a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk for richness.
Final Words
The beauty of this Instant Pot pea soup is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences, whether you’re craving something smoky, spicy, or vegetarian. What’s more, it’s a great way to clear out the pantry or make use of leftovers. Plus, it’s a dish that packs well for lunches throughout the week, meaning you can enjoy it long after the first batch is gone.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For An Instant Pot Pea Soup Recipe?
To make a basic instant pot pea soup, you will need green split peas, vegetable or chicken broth, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. You can also add ham or bacon for extra flavor.
Can I Use Dried Peas In The Instant Pot For Pea Soup?
Yes, dried split peas work perfectly in the instant pot. Just rinse them before adding to the pot to remove any dust or debris.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Pea Soup In An Instant Pot?
The cooking time for pea soup in an instant pot is typically around 15-20 minutes at high pressure. It’s important to let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes after cooking for the best texture.
Can I Cook Frozen Peas In An Instant Pot For Pea Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen peas in place of dried peas, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Frozen peas cook much faster, so the soup will need only about 5-7 minutes under high pressure.
How Do I Thicken My Instant Pot Pea Soup?
If your pea soup is too thin, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup to achieve a thicker consistency. Alternatively, you can simmer the soup without the lid for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
Can I Add Meat To My Instant Pot Pea Soup?
Yes, adding meat like ham, bacon, or sausage is a common variation. For ham, you can add leftover ham bone or diced ham during cooking, which adds depth of flavor to the soup.
What Should I Serve With Instant Pot Pea Soup?
Pea soup is often served with crusty bread or rolls, a side salad, or crackers. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese can also complement the flavors.
Is Instant Pot Pea Soup Recipe Healthy?
Yes, split pea soup is generally healthy as it is rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. For a lower-calorie version, use low-sodium broth and skip the bacon or ham.
Can I Make Instant Pot Pea Soup Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely. Pea soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
How Do I Adjust The Seasoning In My Instant Pot Pea Soup?
Start by adding the recommended seasonings (salt, pepper, bay leaves, thyme) and taste after cooking. You can adjust the seasonings by adding more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs, and even a splash of vinegar for brightness.