Instant Pot Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

Dried split peas: These are the base of the soup, providing a creamy texture and earthy flavor when cooked.

Diced ham: Adds a smoky, savory taste to the soup, complementing the split peas.

Onion: Chopped onion adds a sweet and aromatic depth to the soup.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with a robust, pungent flavor.

Carrots: Sliced carrots contribute a slight sweetness and vibrant color.

Celery: Chopped celery adds a subtle bitterness and crunch.

Chicken broth: Provides a savory and flavorful liquid base for the soup.

Dried thyme: Adds a hint of earthy, herbal notes to the soup.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the soup.

When preparing split peas, ensure they are thoroughly rinsed under cold water to remove any debris or dust. This step is crucial for achieving a clean and smooth soup. Additionally, when adding garlic and onion to the Instant Pot, consider sautéing them first using the sauté function. This will enhance their flavors and add a deeper, more complex taste to the split pea and ham soup.

• dried split peas - Substitute with green lentils: Green lentils have a similar texture and cook relatively quickly, making them a good alternative for split peas.

• diced ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey provides a similar smoky flavor and meaty texture, making it a suitable replacement for ham.

• large onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the soup.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a subtle garlic flavor and can add a similar depth to the soup.

• carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a sweet, earthy flavor that can mimic the taste and texture of carrots in the soup.

• celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a slightly sweet and anise-like flavor that can add a unique twist to the soup while maintaining a similar texture.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar depth of flavor while making the soup suitable for vegetarians.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano offers a robust, earthy flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the soup.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the soup.

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to a watery texture.
• Transfer the split pea and ham soup to airtight containers. For easy portion control, consider using individual serving-sized containers.
• Label the containers with the date. This ensures you keep track of freshness and consume the soup within a safe timeframe.
• Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the soup within 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even more delicious.
• For longer storage, place the containers in the freezer. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its hearty flavor and texture.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing helps maintain the integrity of the split peas and ham.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in 1-2 minute intervals and stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
• Enjoy your reheated split pea and ham soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

• For stovetop reheating, pour the leftover soup into a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the soup is heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it becomes too thick.

• Using the microwave, transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a small vent. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• To reheat in the Instant Pot, add the leftover soup back into the pot. Use the sauté function and stir frequently until the soup is hot. You can add a bit of chicken broth if it needs thinning.

• For oven reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until the soup is thoroughly warmed.

• If you have a slow cooker, you can reheat the soup on the low setting. Transfer the leftovers to the slow cooker and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

• Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker used to cook the soup quickly and efficiently.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the correct amount of dried split peas and chicken broth.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the thyme, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Cutting board: A surface for chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.

• Chef's knife: A sharp knife used for chopping and slicing the vegetables and ham.

• Colander: Used to rinse the split peas under cold water.

• Wooden spoon: Used for stirring the soup before serving.

• Ladle: Used to serve the hot soup into bowls.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and celery in advance and store them in the fridge to save time when you're ready to cook.

Use pre-cooked ham: Buy pre-diced ham to skip the step of cutting it yourself.

Rinse peas ahead: Rinse the split peas the night before and store them in a container, ready to use.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Instant pot presets: Use the soup preset on your Instant Pot to streamline the cooking process.