Indulging in the rich flavors of Crockpot Split Pea Soup is an experience that beckons both culinary enthusiasts and those seeking a wholesome, home-cooked delight. The beauty of this recipe lies in its effortless nature, demanding a mere 15 minutes of hands-on time yet yielding a result that is nothing short of comforting and nourishing. As you embark on this culinary journey, the symphony of green or yellow split peas, the savory essence from a meaty ham bone or leftover ham, and the colorful ensemble of celery, carrots, onion, and garlic come together in the 6qt slow cooker, transforming simple ingredients into a complex and satisfying masterpiece.

What sets this soup apart is the slow-cooking process, allowing each ingredient to gracefully meld with the others over the course of 4-5 hours on high or 8 hours on low. The infusion of a bay leaf, thyme leaves, and fresh parsley adds layers of aromatic sophistication, teasing the senses and elevating the overall dining experience. A thoughtful touch in the recipe lies in the notes, guiding the cook to choose the right split pea brand and adjust the water quantity accordingly. There’s a nod to those opting for a shorter cooking time, suggesting an overnight soak for the peas, demonstrating a keen awareness of diverse schedules and preferences.

The commitment to flavor doesn’t stop there; the recommendation to retain the ham bone or hock until the final stages ensures that every spoonful boasts the essence of smoky, savory ham. The peas, diligently at work throughout the cooking process, gradually break down to naturally thicken the soup, creating a luxurious consistency that clings to the spoon and warms the soul.

In the realm of practicality, the recipe generously allows for customization. Whether you prefer a heartier, more substantial soup or a lighter, broth-based version, the flexibility to adjust the liquid content grants you the power to tailor the dish to your liking. The provided nutritional information, though an estimate, adds a layer of transparency for those mindful of their dietary intake.

As you savor each spoonful of this Crockpot Split Pea Soup, you’re not just enjoying a dish; you’re partaking in a symphony of flavors and textures carefully orchestrated to bring warmth, satisfaction, and a sense of home to your table. The simplicity of its preparation, coupled with the depth of its flavors, renders this soup a culinary triumph—one that resonates with the notion that true excellence need not be complex, but rather, a harmonious blend of quality ingredients and a touch of culinary finesse.

Crockpot Split Pea Soup

PREP TIME15minutes minutes

COOK TIME5hours hours

TOTAL TIME5hours hours 15minutes minutes

SERVINGS12

Warm and satisfying Crockpot Split Pea Soup is a “set it and forget it” recipe that’s comforting to come home to. Healthy ingredients and easy prep make this soup a winner!

Ingredients

  • 20 ounces dried split peas green or yellow, *see note
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water *see note
  • 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups leftover ham
  • 3 stalks celery diced
  • 2 large carrots diced
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ teaspoon black peppe
  • ½ teaspoon thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

Instructions

  • Rinse peas and drain well.
  • Combine all ingredients except parsley in a 6qt slow cooker.
  • Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low 8 hours.
  • Discard bay leaf. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

  • I use Hurst HamPeas Split Peas in this recipe which comes in a 20 oz package. If using a different brand, check the package size. If it contains only 16 oz (1 pound), do not add the additional 2 cups of water.
  • Reduce the liquid slightly for a thicker soup.
  • If cooking for 4 hours on high in the Crockpot, soak peas overnight in clean water. Drain & rinse before using.
  • No need to soak the green peas if they are slow cooking for more than 4 hours!
  • For best results, keep the bone or ham hock in until the soup is finished.
  • The peas will break down and naturally thicken the soup.
  • Thin split pea soup by stirring in extra chicken broth, and to thicken it allow it to cook with the lid off for about 1 hour.

 

Nutrition Information

Calories: 203, Carbohydrates: 26g, Protein: 15g, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 14mg, Sodium: 660mg, Potassium: 604mg, Fiber: 10g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 2141IU, Vitamin C: 10mg, Calcium: 42mg, Iron: 2mg

(Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.)

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