Looking for a meal to warm your heart and home? Try slow cooker split pea soup, a classic comfort food. It’s easy to make and perfect for cold days. This recipe serves 8 people and is ready in 8 hours and 15 minutes, with just 15 minutes of prep.
This slow cooker split pea soup stands out with its hearty ingredients. It includes dried green split peas, cooked ham, and vegetables. It’s easy to make, requiring minimal prep time. It’s perfect for busy people or parents looking for a quick meal.
Key Takeaways
- You can make slow cooker split pea soup in large quantities, serving 8 people.
- The recipe requires only 15 minutes of prep time and 8 hours of cooking time.
- Slow cooker split pea soup is a great example of comfort food recipes that are perfect for the slow cooker.
- The recipe includes a variety of ingredients, including dried green split peas, cooked ham, and vegetables.
- Slow cooker recipes like this one are perfect for busy professionals or parents looking for a quick and easy meal solution.
- The soup contains approximately 225 calories per serving, making it a healthy and nutritious option.
- You can store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
The Perfect Comfort Food for Cold British Days
When it gets cold, you want something warm and comforting. A delicious split pea soup recipe is just what you need. It’s a traditional Scottish dish loved by many in Britain for its warmth and health benefits.
Split pea soup is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. It’s packed with protein and fiber. This makes it a great choice for a healthy meal. Plus, making this easy slow cooker soup is a breeze, thanks to your slow cooker.
Using a slow cooker is perfect for this healthy slow cooker recipe. It cooks the soup slowly, bringing out the best flavors. It’s great for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.
This recipe is also great for meal prep. You can keep it in the fridge for a week or freeze it for months. You can even add potatoes or other veggies to make it thicker and more filling.
Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
To make a tasty slow cooker split pea soup, you need some key ingredients. You’ll need dried split green peas, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, cubed ham, chicken stock, thyme, parsley, and a bay leaf. The quality of these ingredients will really affect your homemade split pea soup‘s flavor and texture.
Here is a list of the ingredients you will need:
- 1 pound dried split green peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cubed ham
- 1 quart chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
You can choose between green or yellow split peas for this recipe. The slow cooker split pea soup is a healthy and tasty meal that’s easy to make. Just put all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it cook for 4-5 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low.
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious and nutritious homemade split pea soup. It’s perfect for a chilly day. The slow cooker split pea soup is great for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal. Serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a full meal.
Preparing Your Ingredients Like a Pro
To make an easy slow cooker soup, start by preparing your ingredients well. Choose the right split peas, which are key in this recipe. You’ll need 1 pound of dried split peas. Soaking them overnight can cut down cooking time and make them softer.
For vegetables, chop them into small pieces. This includes onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the onions in a bit of oil until they’re clear, which should take about 5 minutes. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian soup instead of chicken broth.
- Use fresh vegetables whenever possible
- Don’t overcook your vegetables, as this can make them mushy
- Consider adding some diced ham or other meat to your soup for added flavor
By following these tips, you can make a tasty and easy slow cooker soup. It’s great for a weeknight dinner. Whether it’s a vegetarian or easy slow cooker soup, the secret is to prepare your ingredients well and cook them slowly. This brings out the best flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make the best split pea soup, follow these simple steps. Start by preparing your slow cooker. Add 1-2 pounds of pork neck bones for great flavor. You can also use other options like bone-in pork shoulder or smoked ham hock.
Next, sauté the aromatics like onion, celery, and garlic for about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the split peas, ham bone, and other ingredients to the slow cooker. Pour in 6 cups of hot water or broth and add your desired seasonings.
Initial Slow Cooker Setup
Place the ingredients in the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours. You can also use the stovetop method, simmering the soup for 2-3 hours.
Layering Your Ingredients
Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, starting with the pork bones, then the split peas, and then the vegetables. This will help the flavors meld together.
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
Cook the soup on low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours. You can also use the stovetop method, simmering the soup for 2-3 hours. The key is to cook the soup until the split peas are tender.
Some popular slow cooker recipes include split pea soup, chili, and stew. These recipes are perfect for a cold day and can be made with minimal effort. The best split pea soup is made with love and care, so take your time and enjoy the process.
Remember to always follow the instructions for your specific slow cooker model and to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed. Happy cooking!
Mastering the Perfect Soup Consistency
Getting the right consistency in slow cooker split pea soup is key. As it cools, it might thicken. So, adding more water or stock is needed to get it just right. This is vital for comfort food recipes like split pea soup, as the consistency greatly affects the taste.
To get your slow cooker split pea soup just right, watch its consistency as it cools. If it’s too thick, add a bit more water or stock. If it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer to thicken it. These tweaks will help you achieve the perfect consistency for your comfort food recipes.
Here are some tips to help you master the perfect soup consistency:
- Start with the right ratio of split peas to liquid
- Monitor the soup’s consistency as it cools
- Adjust the thickness by adding more water or stock as needed
By following these tips and adjusting the consistency of your slow cooker split pea soup, you’ll enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort food recipes. It’s sure to become a favorite.
Flavor Variations and Seasoning Tips
Homemade split pea soup is a fantastic choice for healthy slow cooker recipes. You can enhance the flavor by using thyme and rosemary, traditional British seasonings. Or, try international flavors like cumin and coriander for something different.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. Add spices like crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist. Here are some seasoning tips for your homemade split pea soup:
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
- Try using different types of broth, such as chicken or beef, for added depth of flavor
Exploring different flavors and seasoning tips can make your homemade split pea soup delicious and healthy. Whether you prefer traditional British flavors or international tastes, there’s a lot to choose from.
| Seasoning | Description |
|---|---|
| Thyme | A traditional British herb that pairs well with split peas |
| Cumin | A warm, earthy spice that adds depth to the soup |
| Lemon juice | A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and flavor |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When serving your slow cooker split pea soup, aim to make the meal better with the right sides. Try oatcakes, plain or cheese scones, or crusty bread for a hearty meal. You can also make a cheese toastie with your soup for a fun twist.
For a classic touch, serve your soup with Scottish oatcakes or a simple green salad. The goal is to mix flavors and textures well with your soup. With some trial and error, you’ll find your go-to comfort food recipes for chilly days.
- Crusty bread with butter or cream cheese
- A simple green salad with light vinaigrette
- Scottish oatcakes with sour cream
- Cheese scones or toasties for a cozy treat
Slow cooker recipes are great because you can make them your own. So, don’t hesitate to try new things and find your favorite sides for your slow cooker split pea soup.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing and reheating your slow cooker split pea soup is key. It keeps the soup safe to eat and fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for 3-4 months.
To cool the soup fast, use an ice bath or a shallow metal pan. Once it’s cooled, put it in an airtight container. Refrigerate or freeze it. Always heat the soup to 165°F (74°C) for safety.
For healthy slow cooker recipes, proper handling and storage are vital. Here are some reheating tips:
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Add water or broth if the soup is too thick.
- Season with salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your soup longer. It keeps its flavor, texture, and nutrients. Always check for spoilage before eating. Discard it if it smells bad, has a slimy texture, or shows mold.
Troubleshooting Common Split Pea Soup Issues
When making the best split pea soup, you might face some common problems. These can mess with the texture and taste of your homemade soup. Let’s look at some tips to help you get it just right.
Texture issues are a big problem, often due to cooking the peas too little or too much. To fix this, try adjusting the cooking time or adding a bit more liquid. Seasoning can also be a problem. You can fix this by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
Fixing Texture Problems
To get the right texture, cook the split peas until they’re tender. Check by mashing a few peas against the pot’s side. If they’re hard, keep cooking for a few more minutes.
Adjusting Seasoning
Seasoning is key to making the best split pea soup. You can add herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to make sure your soup is tasty and satisfying.
Preventing Common Mistakes
To avoid common mistakes, follow the recipe closely and use top-quality ingredients. You can also make a batch ahead of time and freeze it. This way, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of soup whenever you like.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Homemade Soup
Now that you’ve learned how to make a delicious slow cooker split pea soup, it’s time to enjoy every bite. This comforting soup is not only easy to make. It’s also full of nutrients like protein, fiber, and vitamins that keep you full and energized.
Whether you’re having it on a cold British evening or sharing it with loved ones, this soup will make your home cozy. Try different seasonings and garnishes to find your favorite taste. And remember, making a big batch means you can enjoy it for days. Slow cooker split pea soup is a must-keep recipe for its great taste and health benefits.