In this article, I will be sharing a delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Instant Pot Split Pea Soup. As someone who values high quality information on recipes and nutrition, I strive to provide accurate and factual content. With the help of an Instant Pot, this recipe ensures that the split peas are cooked to perfection, resulting in a hearty and flavorful soup that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s get started on this delightful culinary journey.
Delicious Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe
Split pea soup is a classic comfort food that is both nutritious and satisfying. Made with green split peas, vegetables, spices, and a flavorful liquid, this soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. With the help of the Instant Pot, this recipe is both quick and easy to prepare. In this article, I will guide you through the process of making delicious split pea soup step by step, as well as provide tips, variations, serving suggestions, and storage recommendations.
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Ingredients
To make a flavorful batch of split pea soup in the Instant Pot, you will need the following ingredients:
Green split peas
Green split peas are the star of this soup. They provide a hearty texture and a rich earthy flavor. Be sure to rinse the peas thoroughly before using to remove any debris or impurities.
Vegetables
The vegetables in this recipe add depth and complexity to the soup. You will need onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. These ingredients bring a natural sweetness and aromatic quality to the dish.
Spices
Spices are essential for enhancing the flavor profile of the soup. You will need dried thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of black pepper. These spices provide a savory and herbaceous undertone to the dish.
Liquid
For the liquid component, you will need vegetable broth or water. The liquid helps to cook the split peas and create a rich and flavorful base for the soup.
Additional ingredients
To add extra flavor to the soup, you can include ingredients such as smoked ham, bacon, or smoked paprika. These options will be further discussed in the variations section below.
Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious batch of split pea soup using your Instant Pot.
1. Rinse the split peas
Before starting the cooking process, it is important to rinse the split peas thoroughly. Place them in a colander and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes any dirt or debris that may be present.
2. Prepare the vegetables
Next, prepare the vegetables by chopping the onions, carrots, celery, and mincing the garlic. This can be done while the split peas are rinsing.
3. Sauté the vegetables
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat a small amount of oil or butter. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become fragrant and slightly softened. This will take approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the split peas and spices
Once the vegetables have softened, add the rinsed split peas, dried thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of black pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir well to ensure that the peas are evenly coated with the spices.
5. Add the liquid and secure the lid
Pour in the vegetable broth or water into the Instant Pot, ensuring that the liquid is enough to cover the split peas by about an inch. Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring that it is properly sealed.
6. Cook on high pressure
Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for approximately 15 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and freshness of the split peas. Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10 minutes.
7. Natural release or quick release
After the 10-minute natural release, carefully release the remaining pressure by turning the pressure release valve to the venting position. Be cautious of the hot steam that will be released.
8. Blend the soup (optional)
For a creamier texture, you can choose to blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender. This step is optional and can be adjusted based on personal preference.
9. Adjust the consistency
If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more broth or water to adjust the consistency. Conversely, if the soup is too thin, you can simmer it on sauté mode to reduce and thicken it. Remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
10. Season to taste
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices to enhance the flavor. Remember to discard the bay leaves before serving.
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Tips
To ensure the best results and make your split pea soup even more delicious, here are some helpful tips:
Soaking the split peas
While it is not necessary to soak the split peas before cooking them in the Instant Pot, soaking can help reduce the cooking time and can make the peas easier to digest. If you choose to soak the split peas, simply cover them with water and let them sit for about 6-8 hours or overnight. Drain them before adding them to the Instant Pot.
Pre-cut vegetables for convenience
To save time and streamline the cooking process, consider purchasing pre-cut vegetables from your local grocery store. This will eliminate the need for chopping and reduce preparation time.
Thickening the soup
If you prefer a thicker consistency for your split pea soup, you can use a few different techniques. One option is to blend a portion of the soup, as mentioned in step 8. Another option is to add a starchy ingredient such as diced potatoes or cooked rice to thicken the soup naturally.
Blending techniques
If you are using a regular blender instead of an immersion blender, be cautious when blending hot liquids. Allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to the blender and blend in batches if necessary. Always leave a small opening in the blender lid to allow steam to escape.
Variations
While the classic split pea soup recipe is delicious on its own, there are a few variations you can explore to add different flavors and textures to your soup.
Ham and Split Pea Soup
For a heartier option, add diced cooked ham to the soup. The smoky flavor of the ham pairs perfectly with the earthiness of the split peas. Simply add the diced ham when sautéing the vegetables and follow the rest of the recipe as instructed.
Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
To make the split pea soup vegetarian-friendly, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables such as diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for additional substance. This variation is both nutritious and satisfying for those following a meatless diet.
Smoky Bacon Split Pea Soup
If you love the rich smoky flavor of bacon, this variation is for you. Cook a few strips of bacon until crispy and crumble them on top of the finished soup as a garnish. The bacon adds a delightful crunch and an irresistible smoky taste.
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Serving Suggestions
To elevate your split pea soup and enhance the dining experience, consider adding garnishes and serving it with accompaniments.
Garnish options
Some popular garnish options for split pea soup include chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. These garnishes can add a burst of freshness and an additional layer of flavor to your soup.
Accompaniments
Serve your split pea soup with a side of warm crusty bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. The bread can be used for dipping or spreading with butter, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm and hearty soup.
Storage
If you have leftovers or want to make a larger batch of split pea soup for later consumption, here are some guidelines for storing and reheating.
Refrigerator
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or individual portion-sized containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, simply heat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezer
To freeze split pea soup, ensure that it has cooled down and ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Whether you are reheating the soup from the refrigerator or freezer, choose a method that best suits your convenience. You can reheat it on the stovetop, in the microwave, or even in the Instant Pot on the sauté function. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and adjust the consistency and seasoning if necessary.
In conclusion, this comprehensive article has provided you with a detailed recipe for making delicious split pea soup in the Instant Pot. By following the step-by-step instructions, utilizing the helpful tips, and exploring the variations and serving ideas, you can create a flavorful and satisfying soup that will warm both your body and soul. Enjoy the goodness of this classic comfort food, and make it a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
