There’s nothing like a warm bowl of split pea soup on a chilly day. This hearty, flavorful classic is rich, creamy, and full of comfort. With simple ingredients and a wholesome texture, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep days.
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Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup
This split pea soup is as comforting as it is nourishing. It uses basic pantry staples yet delivers deep, savory flavor. The split peas cook into a creamy base packed with fiber and protein, while tender chicken adds heartiness. You can easily swap in ham, bacon, or keep it vegetarian. Because it freezes well, it’s ideal for batch cooking or quick weeknight meals. It’s also budget-friendly, wholesome, and deliciously filling. Whether served with crusty bread or a light salad, it’s a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need chicken drumsticks, water, oil, onion, carrot, split peas, salt, pepper, potatoes, and fresh dill. Chicken provides the savory base and protein. Split peas bring creaminess and richness while adding fiber. Onion and carrot build flavor and sweetness, balancing the earthy peas. Potatoes make the soup extra thick and hearty. Dill adds a bright, fresh finish that lifts the overall taste. Oil helps sauté the veggies for depth, and simple seasoning ties it all together. Every ingredient plays its part in making this soup balanced and full of homey flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can replace chicken drumsticks with ham hock, bacon, smoked turkey, or even beef bones for a deeper, smokier taste. Each adds a unique layer of flavor. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and use vegetable broth instead. Add more vegetables like celery, mushrooms, or leeks for richness. You can also toss in a bay leaf or thyme for extra aroma. No matter which version you choose, this soup stays hearty and satisfying.
How to Make Split Pea Soup (Step-by-Step)
Cook the Chicken
Start by boiling the chicken drumsticks in salted water for about 30 minutes. This creates a light, flavorful broth and tender meat. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside while keeping the broth simmering.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a separate pan, heat oil and sauté the chopped onions and carrots for 7–10 minutes until soft and fragrant. This step adds rich flavor and sweetness to the soup. Then add them to the pot with the broth.
Add the Split Peas and Seasoning
Next, stir in the split peas. Season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes until the peas start to soften and thicken the broth. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick to the bottom.
Add Potatoes and Simmer
Then add the sliced potatoes. Lower the heat and let everything simmer gently for another 20 minutes. The soup will thicken beautifully as the peas and potatoes cook together.
Finish with Dill and Serve
Finally, stir in chopped dill and simmer for 5 more minutes. The fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma and brightness. Serve warm with your favorite sides or toppings.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
If you like thicker soup, cook it longer or mash some peas with a spoon. You can also blend a portion for a creamy texture. To reduce cooking time and make peas easier to digest, soak them for an hour or overnight before cooking. Add flavor by sautéing garlic and celery with the onions. A pinch of cayenne or thyme gives it extra depth. You can also use bouillon paste for a stronger broth flavor. Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning. These small touches make a big difference in flavor and comfort.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup hot with a slice of crusty bread or toasted baguette. It pairs beautifully with sour cream, croutons, grated cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. A light green salad or simple cucumber side adds freshness and balance. For a cozy dinner, serve it alongside grilled sandwiches or roasted vegetables. Whether for lunch or dinner, it’s a satisfying, feel-good meal that everyone will love.
Storage and Reheating
Let the soup cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir often and add a bit of water or broth to reach your preferred consistency. It reheats beautifully without losing flavor.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Spicy Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
- Quick and Easy Wonton Soup
- Hearty Beef Barley Soup
- Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup
Conclusion
This split pea soup is the kind of comfort food that never goes out of style. It’s thick, flavorful, and nourishing, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. You can customize it with different meats or keep it vegetarian — either way, it’s delicious. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug. Try it today and share your favorite twist on this timeless recipe. For more meal inspiration, check out our Pinterest page for cozy soup ideas.
Split Pea Soup
Equipment
- Large soup pot For boiling and simmering the soup.
- Skillet or saucepan To sauté the vegetables.
- Knife and cutting board For prepping ingredients.
- Ladle To serve the soup easily.
- Immersion blender (optional) For blending to a creamy texture.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken drumsticks
- 4 quarts water
- 1 tablespoon oil
- ½ large onion, chopped
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 1 ½ cups split peas
- 1 tablespoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 medium potatoes, sliced
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped dill
Instructions
- Boil chicken drumsticks in salted water for about 30 minutes until nearly cooked. Remove chicken and keep broth simmering.
- Sauté chopped onions and carrots in oil for 7–10 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add them to the pot.
- Add split peas to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes until peas start to soften.
- Add sliced potatoes and reduce heat to low. Simmer another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in chopped dill and cook for 5 more minutes. Serve warm and enjoy.
