Warm up with this hearty and nutritious Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Split Pea Soup, a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Combining the earthy flavors of split peas with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, this soup is both filling and flavorful. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the ingredients to meld together into a rich, velvety soup that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a cozy lunch, this soup is an excellent choice.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into cubes
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (optional, for extra richness)
- Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by rinsing and sorting the split peas to remove any debris. Dice the sweet potato, chop the carrots, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, layer the split peas, diced sweet potato, chopped carrots, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle the dried thyme, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground turmeric (if using) over the top.
- Add the Broth: Pour the vegetable broth or water over the layered ingredients, making sure everything is submerged. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The soup is ready when the split peas and vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Adjust Seasoning and Add Richness: Once the soup is done cooking, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a richer soup, stir in the olive oil or butter until melted and well combined.
- Blend the Soup (Optional): For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to blend the soup to your desired texture. Alternatively, leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.
- Dish Up: Spoon the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley or cilantro if you like. Enjoy it hot alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Split Pea Soup is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy days when you need a wholesome, comforting meal. The combination of sweet potatoes and split peas creates a naturally creamy texture, while the blend of spices adds warmth and depth to the flavor. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. The slow cooker makes preparation effortless, allowing you to come home to a ready-to-eat, nutritious meal. Enjoy the simple yet satisfying flavors of this cozy soup, perfect for any occasion.