Hearty Split Pea Soup with Carrots and Crusty Bread
There’s something incredibly soothing and satisfying about a steaming bowl of homemade split pea soup, especially on a chilly day. This classic recipe combines tender split peas, sweet carrots, and savory seasonings for a delightfully thick and flavorful soup that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.
What makes this split pea soup truly special is the perfect blend of ingredients and the easy, hands-off cooking method. With minimal prep work and a few simple steps, you can have a nourishing, restaurant-quality soup ready to enjoy with family and friends.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This split pea soup is a winter staple for good reason. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to make. The combination of tender split peas, sweet carrots, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, the hearty texture and satisfying creaminess make this soup truly crave-worthy.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly accessible, with most of the ingredients being pantry or freezer staples. And since it’s a one-pot wonder, cleanup is a breeze. You can even make it ahead of time and reheat it for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this split pea soup is sure to hit the spot.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Split Pea Soup with Carrots and Bread ❓
• 4 cups (960ml) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crusty bread, for serving
The beauty of this split pea soup is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender split peas, sweet carrots, and aromatic herbs creates the comforting, nourishing flavor profile that has made split pea soup recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Split Pea Soup with Carrots and Bread Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are very soft and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Step 3: Remove the bay leaves and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 4: Serve the split pea soup hot, with crusty bread for dipping.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 45-60 minutes
• Total time: 55-70 minutes
Compared to traditional split pea soup which can take up to 90 minutes to prepare, this recipe saves you 20-35% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 12g
• Sodium: 450mg
These hearty split pea soup recipes provide approximately 25% of your daily fiber requirements and 20% of your daily protein needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Reduce the amount of split peas and add more diced cauliflower or zucchini.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any dairy products.
• Added protein: Stir in cooked diced chicken, turkey, or ham during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
• Boost vegetables: Add extra diced carrots, celery, or spinach for an even more nutrient-dense soup.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the split pea soup.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal
• Complement the soup with a side of roasted vegetables
• For a heartier dinner, serve alongside grilled cheese sandwiches
• Create an appetizer platter with the soup, cheese, and crackers for entertaining
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Overcooking the vegetables: Letting the carrots and onions cook for too long can make them mushy and dull the flavor. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Skimping on seasoning: This soup relies on a careful balance of herbs and spices to achieve its signature flavor. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These split pea soup recipes retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the soup through step 3, let cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and serving.
• Freezing baked: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
• Reheating: When reheating the soup, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until piping hot.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this split pea soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually improves in flavor after a day or two in the refrigerator. You can make the entire recipe up to 4 days in advance and store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
Can I substitute different vegetables in the soup?
Yes, you can easily swap out or add other vegetables to this recipe. Diced potatoes, celery, or parsnips would all work well. Just keep the overall volume of vegetables similar to the original recipe.
Is this soup gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes, this split pea soup is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free as written. To make it vegan, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. There are also several dairy-free bread options that would pair nicely with the soup.
Why is my split pea soup too thick or too thin?
The consistency of the soup can vary depending on factors like the age of the split peas, the cooking time, and the amount of liquid used. If it’s too thick, simply thin it out with a bit more broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a little longer to allow the split peas to break down further and thicken the soup.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! Diced ham, smoked turkey, or even crumbled bacon make delicious additions to this split pea soup. Add the cooked meat during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering to allow the flavors to meld.
Conclusion
These hearty split pea soup recipes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, they’re sure to impress with their rich, comforting texture and sophisticated taste. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these split pea soup dishes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So gather your loved ones, ladle up a steaming bowl, and enjoy the warmth and nourishment of this timeless recipe.
