Split Pea Soup Recipe Slow Cooker: Discover the Secret Ingredient

Are you ready to discover the secret ingredient that will elevate your split pea soup recipe slow cooker to the next level? This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings, and the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and a special secret twist, you’ll be serving up a bowl of deliciousness that everyone will love.

This split pea soup is not only nutritious but also brimming with flavor. If you love hearty soups, you might also enjoy our ham and bean soup or the ultimate comfort food fix, taco soup. Both are crowd-pleasers and perfect for any occasion.

So, let’s get started on making this incredible split pea soup in your slow cooker. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll soon see why this recipe is a favorite in many households. Ready to uncover the secret ingredient? Let’s dive in!

Who Can Make This Recipe?

This easy slow cooker split pea soup recipe is perfect for everyone, regardless of their cooking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe simple and straightforward to follow. The difficulty level is easy, making it accessible to anyone looking to create a hearty meal without fuss.

Ideal for All Skill Levels

Even if you’ve never used a slow cooker before, you’ll find making split pea soup in a slow cooker to be a breeze. The necessary equipment includes a slow cooker, a skillet for sautéing the onions and garlic, and an immersion blender to achieve that perfect creamy texture. These tools are all you need to create the best split pea soup slow cooker recipe ever.

For those who are more experienced in the kitchen, this recipe offers a reliable blueprint for a classic dish, with room for creative tweaks. You can easily add your favorite spices or additional vegetables to make it your own. The simplicity of this recipe also means you can focus on perfecting the flavor and texture, ensuring a consistently delicious result every time.

So, if you’re looking for a foolproof method to impress your family or need a comforting meal with minimal effort, this split pea soup is the answer. Plus, you can find more inspiration for your next culinary adventure by checking out this fantastic slow cooker split pea soup recipe from The Pioneer Woman.

In short, making split pea soup in a slow cooker is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. With just a few basic ingredients and some simple equipment, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of soup. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy the best split pea soup slow cooker recipe you’ll ever make!

The Ingredients Needed to Make Split Pea Soup

Now that we’ve discussed the minimal equipment needed, let’s dive into the specifics of the ingredients required for this delicious split pea soup slow cooker recipe. Choosing the right ingredients is crucial to achieving that perfect, hearty flavor that makes this soup a classic comfort food. Let’s explore what you’ll need to create a bowl of warmth and goodness.

Fresh Vegetables and Spices

These ingredients are the foundation of your soup. Fresh vegetables bring vibrant flavors, while spices like bay leaf add depth.

Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor

If you want to enhance the taste, consider adding 1 cup of diced ham. This will transform your dish into a delicious ham and split pea slow cooker recipe. For a vegetarian split pea soup slow cooker version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This simple substitution keeps the soup rich and satisfying without any meat.

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

Are you catering to different dietary needs? No problem! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option. If you prefer a lower-sodium diet, opt for low-sodium broth and adjust the salt to taste. For a touch of zest, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to making a comforting and flavorful split pea soup. Gather everything you need and get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Split Pea Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making this delicious split pea soup recipe slow cooker. Follow these easy steps to ensure a flavorful and hearty meal that everyone will love.

Step 1: Prepare and Rinse the Split Peas

First, rinse the split peas under cold running water. This step is crucial to remove any debris or dust. Place them in a colander and run water over them, gently stirring with your hands to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. Drain and set aside.

While you are rinsing the peas, you can start chopping your vegetables. The preparation might take a little time, but it will be worth it.

Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This step adds a depth of flavor to your soup that you don’t want to miss.

Once the onion is ready, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. This will release the aromatic flavors of the garlic, making your soup even more delicious.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

After the garlic and onion are sautéed, transfer them to your slow cooker. Add the chopped carrots and celery. These vegetables will add a beautiful color and texture to your soup.

Don’t forget to add salt, black pepper, and a bay leaf for seasoning. The bay leaf will infuse the soup with a subtle, earthy flavor.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

It’s time to combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker. Add the rinsed split peas and 6 cups of water. If you prefer a richer taste, you can substitute 1 cup of water with chicken broth. This will add another layer of flavor to your crock pot split pea soup with ham.

If you’re adding ham or bacon, now is the time to stir them in. Both options are excellent and will give your soup a delicious smoky flavor. For a vegetarian version, simply skip this step.

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The long cooking time helps to break down the peas and meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.

Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or croutons if desired. Enjoy your homemade split pea soup with bacon slow cooker!

Serving and Storing Ideas and Tips

After following the steps to prepare, rinse the split peas, sauté the vegetables, and combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, it’s time to dive into the best ways to serve and store your delicious split pea soup. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is designed to be accessible to all levels, requiring minimal cooking knowledge and experience.

Serving Your Split Pea Soup

This healthy split pea soup slow cooker recipe is perfect for any occasion. Serve it hot, straight from the slow cooker, with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For added flair, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or croutons. If you prefer a hearty meal, you can pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich. The soup’s thick and creamy texture, resulting from pureeing, makes it a comforting and satisfying dish.

Another great serving idea is to top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. This not only adds extra flavor but also enhances the presentation. If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving the soup in small bowls or cups as an appetizer. This allows your guests to enjoy a taste of the best split pea and ham soup slow cooker without filling up too much before the main course.

For those who love a bit of spice, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can give the soup a delightful kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination.

Storing Leftovers

This thick pea and ham soup slow cooker recipe makes enough to serve 6-8 people, so you might have some leftovers. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes well. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

By following these serving and storing tips, you can enjoy your split pea soup at its best, whether fresh from the slow cooker or as a convenient meal later on. Happy cooking!

FAQ – Ingredients and Money-Saving Tips

Ever wondered how to make your split pea soup even better? Here are some common questions and answers to help you out!

Ingredients

Q: Can I make split pea soup with ham bone slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! Using a ham bone adds a rich, smoky flavor to your soup. Simply add the ham bone along with the other ingredients and cook as directed. Remove the bone before serving.

Q: What if I want to make a vegan pea soup slow cooker version?

A: You can easily make this soup vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any meat. Add more veggies like potatoes or kale for extra flavor and texture.

Q: Can I use a split pea soup with ham hock slow cooker recipe instead?

A: Definitely! Ham hocks add a wonderful depth of flavor. Just substitute the ham bone with a ham hock and follow the same cooking instructions.

Money-Saving Tips

Q: How can I make this soup on a budget?

A: Buy dried split peas in bulk and use leftover veggies from your fridge. You can also use water instead of broth to save a bit more. Leftover ham or bones can be a great addition without extra cost.

Q: Are there any cheap ingredient replacements?

A: Yes! Instead of using expensive broth, try using bouillon cubes or homemade stock. For a protein boost, add lentils or beans, which are budget-friendly.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Q: My soup turned out too thick. What can I do?

A: No worries! Just add a bit more water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to blend.

Q: Why are my peas not softening?

A: Sometimes, old peas take longer to cook. If they’re still hard after the recommended time, cook a bit longer or pre-soak the peas overnight next time.

Looking for more tips and tricks? Check out this guide for additional advice on making the perfect split pea soup!