Smoky Yellow Split Pea Soup

This Traditional Yellow Split Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting dish made with tender yellow split peas, smoky ham, and aromatic herbs. Slow-simmered to perfection, this flavorful soup is a classic in many Canadian and French-Canadian kitchens. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter evening or as a nourishing meal any time of year, this soup is both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and comforting – A thick, flavorful soup that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy to make – Requires minimal prep and slow-simmers to perfection.
• Nutrient-packed – Loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins from split peas and vegetables.
• Customizable texture – Blend for a smooth consistency or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
• Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day and freezes well.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup:

• 2 cups dried yellow split peas, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced ham or smoked bacon (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)

For Garnish:

• Croutons or toasted bread
• Fresh thyme or parsley
• Black pepper and grated cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing until soft (about 5 minutes).

2. Simmer the Soup

1. Stir in split peas, broth, ham (if using), bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and the soup thickens.

3. Blend or Leave Chunky

1. For a smooth texture, blend half the soup using an immersion blender.
2. For a rustic texture, leave as is. Stir in lemon juice for added brightness.

4. Serve

1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with croutons, fresh thyme, black pepper, or grated cheese.
2. Serve hot with toasted bread or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Option – Omit the ham/bacon and use vegetable broth.
• Extra Smoky Flavor – Add a dash of smoked paprika or use smoked ham hock.
• Creamier Soup – Stir in a splash of cream or blend completely for a velvety finish.
• Spiced Version – Add a pinch of cumin or curry powder for extra depth.
• French-Canadian Style – Use a ham bone while simmering for traditional flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

FAQs

Do I need to soak yellow split peas before cooking?

No, split peas do not require soaking. Simply rinse them before adding to the soup.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

How do I thicken the soup?

The soup naturally thickens as the split peas cook down. If needed, let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors develop even more overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I serve with yellow split pea soup?

Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Can I use green split peas instead of yellow?

Yes! Green split peas have a slightly stronger flavor but work well in this recipe.

Why add lemon juice at the end?

Lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the soup.

Can I use canned peas instead of dried?

No, canned peas will not give the same texture and thick consistency as dried split peas.

How do I add more protein?

Increase the ham or bacon amount, or stir in cooked shredded chicken.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use a gluten-free broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Rich & Smoky Yellow Split Pea Soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and deep smoky flavor, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days or anytime you crave a satisfying homemade soup. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of Canadian tradition!