There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm bowl of hearty soup, especially on a chilly day. This Hearty Split Pea & Carrot Soup is comfort food at its finest. With its creamy texture, earthy flavors, and vibrant color, this soup is both nourishing and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a wholesome dish, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Made with yellow split peas, tender carrots, and a handful of aromatic ingredients, this soup offers a healthy balance of plant-based protein, fiber, and flavor. And the best part? It’s budget-friendly and comes together in under an hour!
So grab your pot, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make a soup that’s sure to warm your heart and belly.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Split Pea & Carrot Soup
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh vegetables, so you won’t have to hunt for anything fancy.
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make and requires minimal cleanup.
- Customizable: Add extra veggies, adjust the spices, or blend for your desired texture.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Freezes and reheats beautifully for easy lunches and dinners.
Ingredients for Hearty Split Pea & Carrot Soup
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Legumes | Yellow split peas | 1 ½ cups |
| Vegetables | Carrots, peeled and finely chopped | 3–4 medium |
| Onion, peeled and finely chopped | 1 medium | |
| Garlic cloves, chopped | 4 | |
| Herbs & Spices | Bay leaves | 3 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | |
| Liquids | Vegetable stock | 6 cups |
| Oils | Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garnish | Fresh parsley, chopped | Bunch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse the yellow split peas thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes any dust or impurities.
- Peel and finely chop the carrots, onion, and garlic.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Split Peas and Bay Leaves
- Add the rinsed yellow split peas to the pot, along with the bay leaves.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the peas are evenly distributed.
4. Add the Stock and Simmer
- Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup simmer for 45–50 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom.
5. Check the Consistency
- Once the split peas are tender and beginning to break down, the soup will thicken naturally.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some texture.
6. Season and Serve
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Nutritional Benefits of Split Pea & Carrot Soup
This soup is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients that support your overall health:
| Ingredient | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Yellow Split Peas | High in protein, fiber, and iron, promoting digestion and muscle repair. |
| Carrots | Rich in beta-carotene for healthy vision and skin. |
| Garlic | Known for its antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. |
| Onion | Contains antioxidants and compounds that support heart health. |
| Olive Oil | Provides healthy fats that enhance nutrient absorption and support heart health. |
| Parsley | Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and provides a burst of fresh flavor. |
Tips for the Perfect Hearty Split Pea & Carrot Soup
1. Rinse the Split Peas Thoroughly
This step is crucial to remove any dirt or debris and ensures a clean, earthy flavor in your soup.
2. Adjust the Consistency
- For a thicker, creamier soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
- If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more vegetable stock or water.
3. Add Extra Veggies
Boost the nutrition and flavor by adding diced potatoes, celery, or even spinach during the cooking process.
4. Play with Spices
While bay leaves add an aromatic touch, you can experiment with additional spices like cumin, turmeric, or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
5. Make It Vegan or Vegetarian
This recipe is naturally vegan when made with vegetable stock, but feel free to customize with your preferred toppings or add-ins.
6. Store and Reheat Easily
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Why Split Peas Are a Nutritional Powerhouse
Yellow split peas are the star of this soup for good reason. They’re a budget-friendly ingredient that’s rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate. They also have a naturally creamy texture when cooked, making them perfect for hearty soups and stews.
Paired with carrots and onions, they create a satisfying dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Plus, the long cooking time in this recipe helps release their natural sweetness, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Sodium | ~350 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use green split peas instead of yellow?
Yes, you can substitute green split peas for yellow. The flavor will be slightly earthier, but the soup will still be delicious.
2. Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?
No, soaking is not necessary for this recipe. Yellow split peas cook quickly and soften beautifully during the simmering process.
3. Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! Diced ham, cooked bacon, or shredded chicken make excellent additions for a non-vegetarian version.
4. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper while sautéing the vegetables for a spicy kick.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
6. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort and Nutrition
This Hearty Split Pea & Carrot Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a nourishing, comforting dish that warms both your body and soul. Packed with simple ingredients, vibrant flavors, and wholesome goodness, it’s the perfect recipe for any day of the week.
So, why not give it a try? Grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade soup that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.
Pro Tip: Make a double batch and freeze half for busy days when you need a quick, healthy meal. Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty, flavorful soup!
Print
Hearty Split Pea & Carrot Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting soup made with yellow splitpeas, carrots, and fresh vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth. This SplitPea & Carrot Soup is nutritious, easy to make, and perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups yellow split peas
- 3 –4 medium carrots (peeled and finely chopped)
- 1 onion (peeled and finely chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (chopped)
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Bunch of fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients : Rinse the yellow split peas thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside. Peel and finely chop the carrots, onion, and garlic.
- Sauté the Vegetables : In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Soup : Add the rinsed split peas to the pot along with the bay leaves. Stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and starting to break down. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season and Serve : Once the peas are soft and the soup has thickened, remove the bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
- Make It Creamier: Blend a portion of the soup for a smoother texture, or add a splash of cream for extra richness.
- Add Protein: Diced ham or shredded chicken makes this soup even heartier.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: vegetarian