Best Split Pea Soup

Best Split Pea Soup: A Cozy Comfort Food

For years, I’ve been searching for the perfect split pea soup recipe. Something hearty, flavorful, and effortlessly comforting. You know, the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out on a chilly evening, leaving you feeling satisfied and content. And let me tell you, friends, my search is finally over! This recipe is a game-changer, a revelation in the world of split pea soups. It's the culmination of countless experiments, adjustments, and a whole lot of taste testing (don't judge!).

I’m a busy working mom, so I need recipes that are both delicious and convenient. This one hits the mark perfectly. The Instant Pot is my secret weapon, dramatically reducing the cooking time without sacrificing any flavor. In fact, I dare say, the pressure cooking method actually enhances the richness and creaminess of the soup. The split peas become wonderfully tender, almost melting in your mouth, while the broth takes on a depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve with traditional stovetop methods.

What truly sets this soup apart is the subtle yet delightful interplay of flavors. The savory bacon (or ham bone, if you prefer) provides a smoky undertone, complemented by the sweetness of the carrots and celery. A touch of sherry adds a hint of sophistication, while the thyme, oregano, and bay leaves contribute an aromatic complexity that elevates the entire dish to another level. And finally, the creamy Boursin cheese – oh, the Boursin cheese! – blends seamlessly into the soup, creating a luxurious, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.

This isn't just soup; it's a culinary hug in a bowl. I've served it to friends, family, and even my notoriously picky teenage son, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. It's the perfect companion to a crusty loaf of bread on a cold winter night, or a light lunch on a busy workday. It’s adaptable too; feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect combination. Maybe add a splash of hot sauce for a little kick, or some fresh parsley for a touch of vibrancy.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the instructions are straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Yet, the resulting soup is anything but simple. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, a testament to the magic that can happen when simple ingredients are brought together with love and care. Trust me on this one. Make this soup. You won't regret it.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra richness.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats beautifully.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

So, grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and deliciousness of this Best Split Pea Soup recipe. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

Step-by-step

• Add butter to the Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi and hit “Sauté.” Once the butter’s melted and bubbling, add the onions, celery and carrots.
• Let sauté for 5 minutes, stirring and setting and then add in the bacon or pancetta (if using in place of a ham bone). Allow to cook for another 10 minutes as it will cook like a tender ham.
• Add in the Sherry and allow to simmer for another minute. Then, add in the broth, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, thyme, oregano bay leaves and split peas (if using a ham bone/hock, add that in now as well).
• Secure the lid and hit “Keep Warm/Cancel” and then hit “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook for 15 minutes at high pressure. Allow a 15 minute natural release when done followed by a quick release.
• Stir all the contents in the pot from the bottom up as the split peas will have basically become a purée and will thicken the soup immediately once stirred up. If you want a slightly thinner soup, add in another cup of your choice of broth now.
• Stir in the Boursin (if using, which I suggest) until melded.