Description
When you’re craving a wholesome, comforting meal, Hearty Slow Cooker Sweet Potato & Split Pea Soup has you covered. This slow-cooked wonder is packed with creamy sweet potatoes, protein-rich split peas, and fragrant spices like turmeric and cumin, all simmered to perfection. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a hands-off dinner idea, this soup is the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup dried split peas (rinsed)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt (to taste)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for richness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by rinsing the split peas under cold water and setting them aside.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Add the diced sweet potatoes, split peas, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery into the slow cooker. Add the bay leaf, ground turmeric, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt to taste.
- Add Liquid: Pour the vegetable broth or water over the ingredients. Carefully stir to mix, making sure all ingredients are fully immersed.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the split peas and vegetables are soft and fully cooked.
- Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf and stir in olive oil for added richness and lemon juice for a hint of acidity if desired. Taste and modify the seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy warm. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Add Protein: For a protein boost, stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils near the end of cooking.
- Smooth Texture: Use an immersion blender to blend some or all of the soup for a creamier consistency.
- Freeze It: This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently when ready to eat.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American