Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm and comforting meal
• Easy one-pot recipe
• Quick cooking with the Instant Pot
• Rich, creamy texture without cream
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Packed with protein and fiber
• Budget-friendly and filling

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham optional
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Add the rinsed split peas, broth, ham hock or diced ham if using, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
5. Stir well and secure the lid.
6. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
7. Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 to 15 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock if used. Shred any meat from the ham hock and return it to the soup.
9. Stir the soup well. If a smoother texture is desired, use an immersion blender briefly.
10. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Pressure Release Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and omit the ham.
• Spicy Soup: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
• Extra Vegetables: Add potatoes or spinach.
• Creamier Texture: Blend more of the soup for a smoother consistency.
• Herb Variation: Add rosemary or parsley for additional flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover split pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

This soup freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Do split peas need to be soaked?

No, split peas cook quickly and do not require soaking.

Why is my split pea soup so thick?

Split peas naturally thicken as they cook and continue thickening as they cool.

Can I make this without ham?

Yes, the soup is delicious as a vegetarian version as well.

What do split peas taste like?

They have a mild earthy flavor and become creamy when cooked.

Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes, it freezes very well for future meals.

Why won’t my split peas soften?

Older split peas may take longer to cook and soften.

Can I use green or yellow split peas?

Yes, both varieties work well.

What sides pair with split pea soup?

Crusty bread, crackers, or sandwiches pair perfectly.

Is split pea soup healthy?

Yes, it is high in protein, fiber, and nutrients while being very filling.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is a hearty and flavorful comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. With creamy split peas, savory vegetables, and rich seasonings, this one-pot meal is satisfying, nutritious, and ideal for meal prep. Whether served as a cozy lunch or filling dinner, this classic soup is sure to become a favorite.

Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

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Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal made with tender split peas, vegetables, and savory seasonings. Creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or chilly days.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Soup
• Method: Instant Pot
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham, optional
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Add the rinsed split peas, broth, ham hock or diced ham if using, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
5. Stir well and secure the lid.
6. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
7. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 to 15 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock if used. Shred any meat from the ham hock and return it to the soup.
9. Stir the soup well. If a smoother texture is desired, use an immersion blender briefly.
10. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.

Notes

• Split peas do not require soaking before cooking.
• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the ham.
• If the soup becomes too thick after cooling, add extra broth or water when reheating.
• This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or sandwiches for a complete meal.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 16 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg