Cozy Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe

Warm, Hearty, and Cozy—Is There Anything Split Pea Soup Can’t Do?

As the temperatures drop and sweaters make their seasonal debut, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. Split pea soup has been a longtime favorite in my kitchen—simple ingredients, satisfying flavors, and a rich history (did you know it dates back to Ancient Greece?). Plus, in the Instant Pot, it becomes a weeknight miracle dish, cutting hours off traditional cooking time. Let’s bring some evergreen comfort to your table today with this easy-peasy recipe!

“If you’re all about flavor-packed meals with minimal effort, this Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is your soulmate in a bowl.”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can skip hours of simmering.
• Healthy & Hearty: Naturally packed with protein, fiber, and tons of nutrients.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples without compromising on flavor.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe for vegan, vegetarian, or meat-lovers.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials:

• Split Peas: Dried green split peas are the star here. No soaking needed—just rinse and you’re good to go!
• Ham Bone or Ham Hock (Optional): Adds richness and smoky depth. For vegetarian options, skip or use liquid smoke.
• Onion, Carrots, and Celery: These aromatics create a flavorful base for the soup.
• Garlic: A must for extra savory goodness.
• Vegetable or Chicken Stock: Use the one that fits your dietary needs. Homemade stock takes it to another level!
• Herbs: Bay leaf and thyme bring warmth and earthiness.

Pro Tips:

• If you’re skipping the ham, consider adding a smoked paprika or nutritional yeast for a boost in flavor!
• No stock? Water works perfectly fine with a little extra seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté your chopped onions, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
2. Switch off the Sauté mode and stir in the rinsed split peas, bay leaf, thyme, and your selected stock. If using, place the ham bone or ham hock in the pot.
3. Seal the Instant Pot. Set it to Manual (High Pressure) for 15 minutes. Be prepared for about 10-15 minutes of pressure buildup before cooking starts.
4. Once the timer is up, let the pot naturally release pressure for 15 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid.
5. Give everything a good stir. If you used a ham bone, remove it, shred off any meat, and return it to the pot.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of water or stock to reach your desired consistency. Serve warm.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Perfect Consistency: Blend half the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture while keeping some chunks intact.
• Avoid Sticking: Stir the soup well before cooking to prevent peas from clinging to the bottom.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Vegetarian: Skip the ham and amp up the flavor with a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes while sautéing the aromatics.
• Serving Ideas: Pair with crusty bread, cornbread, or even a side salad for a complete meal.

FAQs

• Can I make this on the stovetop? Absolutely! Just simmer the ingredients together for about 1.5-2 hours until the peas are soft.
• What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Gently heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen it if needed.
• Do split peas need to be soaked? Nope! That’s the magic of the Instant Pot—you can skip pre-soaking entirely.

Let me know how your soup turned out in the comments or on social media! Use the hashtag #TheKitchensAid to share your delicious creations. I can’t wait to see and hear all about them!