Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup in a white bowl with spoon.

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!

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings

Calories 307kcal

Author Gary White

Ingredients

1 lb. green split peas soaked minimum of 4 hours
2 Tbsp. olive oil
½ cup yellow onions diced
½ cup celery diced
1 cup carrots diced
2 Tbsp. garlic paste or minced garlic
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
6 cups chicken broth
6 thyme sprigs
1 bay leaf
1 tsp. sea salt
8 oz. ham pieces

Instructions

Add peas to bowl and let sit overnight (or for a minimum of 4 hours).
Rinse soaked split peas thoroughly.
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the oil and diced onions and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the diced celery, carrots, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce to the Instant Pot. Sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Add the soaked split peas, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and ham pieces to the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine. Lock the lid and cook for 7 minutes at high pressure for slightly firm peas or 10 minutes for a softer texture.
Once cooking is complete, quick-release the pressure. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.

Video

Notes

Expert Tips

If you want to (or must) skip the soaking process due to time... 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!
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.
Soak split peas in lukewarm water for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
For a slightly firmer texture, cook the soup for 7 minutes at high pressure; for a softer consistency, cook for 10 minutes.
Quick-release the pressure to prevent overcooking the peas and vegetables.
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.

Nutrition