Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of a warm and hearty Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup filling the air. The comforting scent of smoky ham, tender split peas, and vegetables simmered to perfection in your slow cooker greets you, instantly bringing a sense of relaxation. This easy recipe provides a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal that requires minimal effort—perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
In this guide, you’ll learn why Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a staple for any kitchen. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it’s not just delicious but incredibly nutritious. Whether you’re looking to meal prep or cook for the entire family, this hearty soup will satisfy every craving.
Table of Contents
Why Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Should Be Your Go-To Meal
Health Benefits of Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a powerhouse of health benefits that make it an ideal addition to your diet. This recipe is high in protein and fiber, both of which help maintain your energy levels, support digestion, and stabilize blood sugar. But that’s not all—split peas also provide an abundance of vitamins and minerals.
- Protein & Fiber: Split peas are a rich source of plant-based protein, making this soup perfect for vegetarians and those looking to boost their protein intake. With nearly 16 grams of protein per cup, they also pack in an impressive amount of fiber, helping to keep you full longer and aid in digestion.
- Vitamins & Antioxidants: Split peas are loaded with vitamins A, B, and C, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system, skin, and vision. Carrots, onions, and garlic add even more nutritional value to the soup with their antioxidants, promoting overall well-being.
Additionally, the ham in the recipe provides healthy fats and a boost of iron, helping to support muscle function and energy. As a bonus, making your soup in the slow cooker brings out the deep, smoky flavor of the ham while ensuring the peas cook to a perfect creamy consistency.
Quick and Easy with a Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker means you get to enjoy all the flavors of homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking process not only enhances the soup’s depth of flavor but also allows the ingredients to meld together effortlessly.
- Minimal Effort: Once you’ve prepped the ingredients, the slow cooker does the rest. You simply set it and forget it—leaving you free to go about your day.
- Enhanced Flavor: The slow cooking method allows the peas and ham to fully absorb the broth, creating a rich, full-bodied flavor that’s far superior to any quick stove-top recipe.
What You Need for the Perfect Split Pea Soup
Before you start, gather all your ingredients to ensure you’re ready to go! Here’s a simple list of the essentials for a mouthwatering Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Split peas | 2 cups | High in protein and fiber, supports digestion |
| Ham (cubed) | 1 cup | Adds rich, smoky flavor and protein |
| Carrots (chopped) | 2 medium | Rich in vitamin A and antioxidants |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 large | Adds flavor and beneficial nutrients like vitamin C |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Boosts immunity and flavor |
| Vegetable or chicken broth | 6 cups | Provides depth of flavor while keeping the soup hearty |
Pro Tip: If you’re aiming for a vegan version of this soup, simply substitute the ham with smoked tempeh or smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
How to Prepare Split Pea Soup in a Slow Cooker
Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfect Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to bring this delicious soup to life! Here’s a simple, foolproof guide:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by rinsing the split peas to remove any dust or debris. Chop the vegetables and ham, ensuring that they are cut into bite-sized pieces. Set everything aside and get ready to load up the slow cooker.
Step 2: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Add the split peas, chopped ham, carrots, onions, and garlic to your slow cooker. Pour in the broth (vegetable or chicken) and give it a good stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Cook
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the peas will break down, and the flavors will meld together to create a delicious, hearty soup.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
For a smooth, creamy texture, take an immersion blender and blend half of the soup directly in the slow cooker. If you prefer a chunkier texture, simply stir and leave it as is.
Customize Your Split Pea Soup
Vegan Split Pea Soup
If you follow a plant-based diet, you can easily make this recipe vegan-friendly. Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. To enhance the flavor, add smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or tempeh as a protein alternative.
Add Extra Veggies
Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! You can add celery, sweet potatoes, or even spinach to increase the nutrient content and add different textures.
Spicy Split Pea Soup
Want to add some heat? Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or finely chopped jalapeños to turn up the spice level. These additions will complement the smoky ham and bring an extra punch to the soup.
The Nutritional Power of Split Pea Soup
This isn’t just a bowl of comfort—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s why Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is perfect for your health and fitness goals:
- High in Protein: A serving of split pea soup contains around 15-20 grams of protein, making it a great choice for muscle building and repair.
- Rich in Fiber: The combination of split peas, carrots, and onions adds plenty of fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you feeling full longer.
- Low in Fat: With the optional lean ham and lots of veggies, the soup remains low in fat, making it a perfect option for weight management.
Key Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 16g
- Fiber: 14g
- Fat: 3g
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
How to Store
Once your Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is ready, store any leftovers in airtight containers. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To store, make sure the soup has cooled down to room temperature before transferring it to the containers.
How to Reheat
To reheat, simply add the soup to a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it for 2-3 minutes until hot. If the soup has thickened, add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use dried peas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Dried split peas are the base of this recipe, so they work perfectly in a slow cooker. Just rinse them thoroughly before use to remove any impurities.
Can I make Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup without ham?
Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of this soup by substituting the ham with vegetable broth and adding extra spices for a smoky flavor. Smoked paprika and liquid smoke are excellent alternatives!
How can I thicken my soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup after it’s done cooking. If you don’t have one, you can also transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and then return it to the slow cooker.
Conclusion: A Hearty, Healthy Meal for Any Day of the Week
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a nourishing, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, making dinner for the family, or just craving something warm and filling, this soup fits the bill. It’s easy, nutritious, and absolutely delicious.
Now that you know how to prepare this comforting, hearty soup, why not give it a try tonight? Gather your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let the flavors develop while you go about your day. You’ll have a tasty, nutritious meal ready to enjoy in no time.
Call to Action:
Ready to make your own Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup? Start cooking today and share your version with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you customize this recipe to suit your taste!