Introduction
Crock Pot Split Pea Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a warm bowl of comfort food. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of split peas with a mix of vegetables, making it a filling and healthy option. Using a slow cooker, this soup allows for easy preparation and minimal active cooking time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Green split peas – 1 cup
Vegetable broth – 6 cups
Carrots, diced – 2 medium
Celery, diced – 2 stalks
Onion, diced – 1 medium
Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
Thyme, dried – 1 teaspoon
Bay leaf – 1
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Prep Time
Prep time for this delicious soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes washing and chopping the vegetables, as well as measuring out the split peas and spices.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the soup in the Crock Pot is around 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. The total time, including prep, ranges from 6 hours and 15 minutes to 8 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the cooking setting chosen. This recipe yields about 6 servings of flavorful soup, making it a great option for meal prep or feeding a family.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the carrots, celery, and onions into small pieces. Ensure uniform size for even cooking.
Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Place the chopped vegetables into the crock pot. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.
Set Cooking Temperature
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
Check for Doneness
After the cooking time, check if the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. You may need to adjust the cooking time based on your crock pot’s performance.
Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until your desired consistency is reached.
Season the Soup
Remove the bay leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Serve the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. You can pair it with bread or crackers if desired.
Notes
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
Ensure that the vegetable broth used is vegetarian or vegan if you prefer to keep the soup plant-based.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
Consider adding toppings like croutons, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice for enhanced flavor.
Adjusting Thickness
If the soup is too thick for your liking, add additional vegetable broth or water to reach your preferred consistency before serving.
Cooking Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables or spices according to your preferences. Consider adding diced potatoes, spinach, or a pinch of cumin for extra flavor.
