Instant Pot Split Pea Soup
Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is full of flavor and provides a comforting, warm feeling. It includes ham, onion, garlic, and thyme. It can also be made vegetarian or vegan.
Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is full of flavor and provides a comforting, warm feeling. It includes ham, onion, garlic, and thyme. It can also be made vegetarian or vegan.
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 leaves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 onion (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (pressed or finely minced)
- 3 stalks of celery (diced)
- 1/2 tsp thyme leaves (dried)
- 3 carrots (chopped)
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth ((use only 5 cups for
- 1 lb green split peas (rinsed and sorted (unsoaked))
- 1 tsp liquid smoke (optional) (for vegetarian version)
- 6 slices bacon (optional) (chopped )
- 2 small ham hocks (optional) (not very meaty but add a nice smoky flavor and richness.)
- 1 leftover ham bone (optional) (i like to use this w
- 2 - 3 cups diced leftover ham ((optional))
- Carbohydrate 21.3285177255055 g
- Cholesterol 10.1677083376937 mg
- Fat 4.80910629772807 g
- Fiber 7.55381464564005 g
- Protein 7.05525489654288 g
- Saturated Fat 2.57246501843491 g
- Serving Size 1 1 - 8 (133g)
- Sodium 229.588010838182 mg
- Sugar 13.7747030798654 g
- Trans Fat 0.386520110963566 g
- Calories 152 calories
Step-by-step
- Turn the pressure cooker on to the Sauté function. Let it warm up and add the olive oil and butter.
- Add the onion, celery, bay leaves, and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion starts to turn translucent.
- Add the carrots, garlic, bacon or ham (if using), and salt & pepper. Cook for a minute.
- Add the broth and ham bone or ham hocks (if using). (Add liquid smoke, if using, for the vegetarian method). Let come to a simmer.
- Stir in the split peas.
- Place the lid on the pot and lock it in place. Set the steam release knob to the Sealing position.
- Cancel the sauté function and choose Pressure Cook/Manual, and use the + or - or dial to choose 18 minutes. It will take a few minutes for the pot to come to pressure.
- When the cooking time has finished, let the pot sit undisturbed for 15 minutes to naturally release some of the pressure. Then turn the steam release knob to Venting to quick release the remaining pressure.
- When the pin in the lid drops down, carefully open the lid, facing away from you. Remove the bay leaves and the bone or ham hocks, if you used them.
- Taste and adjust the salt as desired.
- Serve hot. The soup will thicken quite a bit when it cools; that is normal.
My Comfort Food: Instant Pot Split Pea Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a hearty and healthy meal can feel like a Herculean task. My days are a whirlwind of meetings, school pick-ups, and endless to-do lists. But even amidst the chaos, I need a warm, comforting meal that nourishes both my body and soul. That's where my Instant Pot Split Pea Soup comes in. This recipe is a lifesaver, a delicious solution to my time constraints, and a delicious way to end a hectic day.
The beauty of this soup lies not just in its incredible flavor, but in its simplicity. It's a one-pot wonder that requires minimal chopping and even less babysitting. The Instant Pot takes care of most of the work, allowing the split peas to soften and meld into a creamy, flavorful broth without any fuss. I love the versatility of this recipe too. Sometimes I add bacon for extra smoky richness, while other times I opt for a vegetarian version using liquid smoke. Depending on my mood, I might add leftover ham or ham hocks for a deeper, more savory flavor profile. It’s all about adapting the recipe to fit the ingredients that I have on hand.
The aroma that fills my kitchen while this soup simmers is heavenly. It's a blend of earthy split peas, aromatic herbs like thyme, and the subtle sweetness of carrots and onions. The comforting warmth of the soup itself is a welcome hug on a cold evening, a perfect way to de-stress and unwind after a long day. My family absolutely loves it, and it's become a staple in our weekly meal rotation. It's the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, fostering connection and creating lasting memories. It's not just about nourishment for the body but for the soul as well. And honestly, on a busy weeknight, that's a priceless combination.
Beyond its convenience and taste, the Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is also incredibly nutritious. Split peas are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, keeping me feeling full and satisfied for hours. This is perfect for my active lifestyle, and it means I'm less likely to reach for unhealthy snacks later in the evening. The soup is also packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, making it a well-rounded and healthy meal. For me it's a perfect balance of convenience, flavour, health and family time all rolled into one simple recipe.
So, whether you're a busy professional like myself, a stay-at-home parent, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious and easy meal, I highly recommend trying my Instant Pot Split Pea Soup. It's a recipe that has become an indispensable part of my life, and I have a feeling it'll quickly become a favorite in your home too. The simplicity of the process, the incredible flavour and the warm feeling it provides makes it a winner all round.
This isn't just a soup; it's a symbol of nourishment, convenience, and the simple joys of home-cooked food. It's a testament to how even the busiest of lives can still prioritize health and family time, with a little help from a trusty Instant Pot and a pinch of love.
I often find myself reflecting on the meals that have shaped my memories, and I know that this simple split pea soup will hold a special place in my heart. It's a recipe that's become more than just food; it's a reminder of warmth, comfort, and the simple pleasures of life.
So go ahead, try this recipe, and let me know what you think! Share your experiences and adaptations – I'd love to hear your own comforting stories.
