Swap the usual pumpkin or butternut bowl for something humble and hearty: split pea soup. This frugal, comforting recipe brings forward an underrated pantry staple and proves it can stand up to any seasonal favorite. Expect a velvety texture, smoky crunch, and an easy method that fits weeknight cooking.
Split pea soup recipe — ingredients for four servings
- 400 g split peas (dried)
- 1 pack of smoked lardons or diced bacon (about 150–200 g)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 medium onions
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- About 2 liters water (adjust for desired thickness)
Step-by-step: how to make this split pea soup
Quick prep
- Peel and roughly chop the onions.
- Rinse the split peas under cold water until the rinse runs clear.
Cooking in the pot
- Heat olive oil in a pressure cooker or heavy pot. Sauté the onions a few minutes until soft.
- Add the rinsed peas and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour in around 2 liters of water to cover the ingredients.
- If using a pressure cooker: close the lid and cook about 25 minutes after the valve whistles. For a regular pot: simmer until peas are very tender, 45–60 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf. Blend the soup until silky using a hand blender or in batches in a stand blender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
Final touches
- Cook the lardons in a dry skillet until crisp. No extra fat needed if they are smoked.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle the crisp lardons on top.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Practical tips to perfect texture and flavor
- For a richer mouthfeel, stir in a splash of cream or a knob of butter at the end.
- Want it thinner? Add warm broth or water a little at a time.
- Vegetarian option: omit lardons and finish with a drizzle of smoked oil or roast mushrooms.
- To avoid foam while cooking, skim impurities that rise to the surface after the first boil.
- Always rinse split peas before cooking to reduce gas-causing sugars and improve digestibility.
Storage, reheating and make-ahead ideas
- Fridge: keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: cool fully, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little liquid to restore creaminess.
Why split peas are a smart choice for your diet
Split peas are a nutrient-dense legume with valuable benefits. They are high in fiber, which supports digestion and helps regulate bowel movements. Low in calories and naturally gluten-free, they suit many dietary needs. Rinsing them before cooking removes oligosaccharides that can upset sensitive stomachs. Economical and filling, split peas deliver protein, vitamins, and minerals without breaking the grocery budget.
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