Welcome to the world of cozy, comforting meals! This split pea soup crockpot recipe is your ticket to a hearty dish. It’s not only delicious but also super easy to make. Perfect for those chilly evenings, this recipe is a healthy soup option full of nutrients.
Imagine letting your crockpot work its magic while you’re out. Then, return home to the savory smell of split pea soup. Trust us, it’s a must-try for everyone who loves simple, comforting meals. It’s a true gem among easy soup recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup Crockpot Recipe
This split pea soup is a true delight. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, so you can enjoy every bite.
Hearty and Flavorful
This soup is full of rich, earthy flavors and a thick texture. It’s made with split peas, spices, and seasonings. It’s a nourishing and tasty soup that warms your heart and body.
It’s also packed with nutrients. This makes it a great choice for a family-friendly meal. It’s a smart way to get your greens.
Effortless Meal Prep
Preparing this soup is super easy. Just put your ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook. You can relax while it cooks.
Imagine coming home to a warm, delicious bowl of soup. The prep is simple, and the flavor is amazing. This recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients for Your Perfect Split Pea Soup
Making a tasty split pea soup starts with picking the right stuff. It’s not just filling, but also full of good stuff. The bright colors and tastes make it perfect for a cozy night in.
Essential Ingredients
Your split pea soup needs a few key things to be great:
- 1 pound of dried green split peas
- 1 diced onion
- 2 peeled and chopped carrots
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
These basics make your soup both tasty and satisfying. The peas give protein, carrots and onions add sweetness, and garlic adds a savory touch.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
After you have the basics, think about adding these to make it even better:
- Diced ham for a smoky, meaty flavor
- Smoked paprika for an exciting twist
- Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added aroma
Try different things to make your soup your own. It’s fun to experiment and find what you like best.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Split Pea Soup
Making split pea soup in your crockpot is easy. Just follow these steps. You’ll have a delicious bowl of soup ready for you.
Preparing the Ingredients
First, get all your ingredients ready. Rinse the split peas and sort them. Then, chop your veggies into small pieces. This makes them cook evenly.
Having everything ready makes cooking easier. It helps you enjoy your meal more.
- 1 pound split peas
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Setting Up Your Crockpot
Now, set up your crockpot. Put the split peas at the bottom. Then add the chopped veggies on top.
Pour in the broth so the peas are covered. Stir everything well. This mixes the flavors together.
Split Pea Soup Crockpot Recipe: Cooking Times and Temperatures
Knowing how to cook your split pea soup is key. It makes your dish better. Choosing the right crockpot setting is important for the right taste and texture.
Low vs. High Settings
Low and high settings make your soup different. Low cooking takes 8 hours. It makes the soup creamy and comforting.
High setting cooks it faster, in 4 to 5 hours. It’s great for when you’re in a hurry but still tasty.
How Long to Cook for Best Results
Check the soup’s temperature to get it just right. Use a food thermometer. When the peas are tender, it’s done.
For low setting, taste it after 7 hours. This way, you can adjust cooking time. It helps avoid overcooking and keeps the soup rich.
| Crockpot Setting | Cooking Time | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 8 hours | Creamy and rich |
| High | 4-5 hours | Satisfying but less creamy |
Health Benefits of Split Peas
Split peas are a nutritional powerhouse. They are full of fiber and plant-based protein. This makes them great for a healthy diet.
Nutrition Facts
One cup of cooked split peas has about:
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 231 |
| Protein | 16.3 g |
| Fiber | 16.5 g |
| Fat | 0.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
They help your heart and digestion. The fiber keeps you full longer. This helps you eat well.
Why They’re a Smart Choice
Adding split peas to your meals is tasty and healthy. They are low in fat, good for your weight. They also give you energy all day.
Perfect Pairings for Your Split Pea Soup
To make your split pea soup better, think about what goes well with it. Try adding crusty bread, fresh salads, and tasty side dishes. This way, you’ll have a meal that everyone will love.
Crusty Bread Suggestions
For bread, pick something that’s strong enough for your soup. Here are some great choices:
- Sourdough: Its tangy taste makes the soup richer.
- French Baguette: Great for dipping, it’s crispy and fun.
- Whole Wheat: It has a nutty flavor that goes well with the soup’s creaminess.
Pairing with Salads and Sides
For something lighter, a fresh salad is perfect. Here are some salad ideas:
- Caesar Salad: It’s got crisp lettuce, parmesan, and a tangy dressing.
- Mixed Green Salad: It’s fresh with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light dressing.
- Coleslaw: It’s crunchy and adds a nice contrast to the warm soup.
Adding these salads and sides will make your meal even better. It turns a simple soup into a full, comforting meal.
Storing and Reheating Your Split Pea Soup
Keeping your split pea soup fresh is key after meal prep. The right storage keeps the flavor and texture great. Here’s how to keep your soup tasty for days.
Best Storage Practices
Storing your soup right is crucial for its taste. Here are some tips:
- Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to a week. This keeps your soup fresh and tasty.
- Freeze portions if you won’t eat them in a week. Freezing keeps the soup’s nutrients and flavor.
- Label containers with the date. This helps you remember when you made it.
How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
Reheating soup is easy, but some tips can keep it flavorful:
- Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. This makes reheating better.
- Warm your soup gently on the stove. This keeps it creamy and flavorful.
- If it’s too thick, add a bit of water or broth. This gets it right.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Split Pea Soup
When making split pea soup, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. Many people ruin the soup’s creamy texture by mistake. One big mistake is picking old or damaged peas.
Always choose fresh split peas for the best taste and texture in your soup.
Using the Wrong Peas
There are different types of split peas, and each can change your soup’s taste and feel. Yellow and green peas are the most common. They taste and feel a bit different.
Knowing this helps you make a better soup. The right peas make your soup taste better and feel just right.
Overcooking vs. Undercooking
Getting the cooking time right is also key. Peas that are too long in the pot become mushy. This makes your soup less tasty.
On the other hand, peas that aren’t cooked enough can be crunchy and not good. Learning to cook them just right is important. It makes your soup amazing.
