Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

This Instant Pot split pea soup is full of texture and flavor. Turn those leftover ham pieces into a simple yet satisfying dish—no bowl of mush here!

When I was younger, I always liked the taste of split pea soup. But I could never get over the texture. It was like eating a bowl of soupy mashed potatoes. So, like many of my other recipes, my goal is to create food that I love and that my kids will eat. And this Instant Pot split pea soup is a hit at our dinner table!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Soaking split peas before cooking makes them easier to digest and reduces cooking time.
2. It's a perfect way to repurpose leftover ham that adds depth of flavor and texture to the soup.
3. This split pea soup is not your average mushy bowl of soup; it's packed with hearty chunks of ham and vegetables.
4. The combination of thyme, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce adds layers of savory goodness.

To Soak or Not to Soak?

Some people will swear that you don't need to soak split peas. While technically, you don't have to, there are a few huge benefits to doing so.

1. They digest more easily - meaning less gas. Some say unsoaked beans don't affect them, but soaking them has been proven to make digestion easier by helping break down the sugars.
2. Soaking them reduces cooking time. Since we want to cook them as quickly as possible (to avoid turning the peas and other vegetables into mush), soaking them is the better choice.

More Bean Soup Recipes

• Vegan Instant Pot White Bean Soup
• Pressure Cooker White Bean Soup with Crispy Sausage and Kale
• Instant Pot Chicken Chili, Easy and Delicious
• Instant Pot White Chicken Chili in 3 Steps
• Pressure Cooker Chili

Ingredients for Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

How to Make Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

And this is the AMAZING Result…

Expert Tips

1. If you want to (or must) skip the soaking process due to time... During step 5, add all ingredients to the pot, mix well, and lock the lid. Then, cook at high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure. It won't be the same, but it will still be delicious!
2. When you first open the lid, the soup will be a little watery. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving so the consistency reaches its peak.
3. Soak split peas in lukewarm water for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
4. For a slightly firmer texture, cook the soup for 7 minutes at high pressure; for a softer consistency, cook for 10 minutes.
5. Quick-release the pressure to prevent overcooking the peas and vegetables.
6. Serve the soup with a side of rice, or enjoy it as a standalone dish for a satisfying meal.

FAQs

Do I have to soak the split peas? While it's not mandatory, soaking the split peas offers benefits such as easier digestion and reduced cooking time.

Can I use other types of ham or meat? Feel free to substitute with different types of ham or smoked turkey for a unique twist.

Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes! To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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📖 Recipe

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