Dinner

Comforting Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe

Byreem everly November 3, 2025November 3, 2025

Introduction

This classic split pea soup is easy to make and wonderfully comforting. Packed with hearty vegetables and flavorful herbs, it’s a perfect cozy meal that’s healthy and satisfying anytime.

The image shows a thick classic split pea soup served in a white bowl filled nearly to the top with a chunky yellow-green soup. The soup has visible small pieces of orange carrots and white potato chunks scattered throughout, and a few small green herb sprigs on the surface. A silver spoon is partially dipped into the soup inside the bowl. To the right side of the bowl, two rectangular whole grain crackers rest on the side. Part of a white bowl with the same soup and part of a pot filled with the soup are also partially visible. All items rest on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz green split peas
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium yellow or Yukon potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 ribs celery, diced
2 Tbsp neutral oil (such as avocado oil)
2 small carrots, diced
2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
2 bay leaves
6 cups vegetable broth or vegan chicken broth
2 cups water, as needed to thin
3 dashes liquid smoke, or more to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 5-8 minutes until translucent. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add the celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and split peas. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth, cover the pot, and simmer on medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the peas begin to break down.
Step 4: Stir in the potatoes, carrots, and liquid smoke. Continue cooking for another 20-25 minutes until all vegetables are soft and the soup has thickened.
Step 5: Add up to 2 cups of water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves before serving hot.

Tips & Variations

Pick through the split peas before cooking to remove any debris and rinse them well.
For a smoky flavor without liquid smoke, add a smoked paprika pinch instead.
Use vegetable broth for a vegan option or chicken broth for added richness.
Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture if desired.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding water if the soup has thickened too much.