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.

Ham bone: Adds depth and richness to the soup. If unavailable, use diced ham.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and color to the soup.

Celery: Provides a subtle crunch and enhances the flavor.

Onion: Adds a savory depth to the soup.

Garlic: Infuses the soup with a fragrant aroma and flavor.

Chicken broth: Forms the liquid base of the soup, adding a savory note.

Dried thyme: Adds a hint of herbal flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the soup.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and balances the flavors.

To enhance the flavor of your split pea and ham soup, consider sautéing the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in the Instant Pot using the sauté function before adding the rest of the ingredients. This step caramelizes the vegetables, adding a deeper, richer flavor to the soup.

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

• ham bone - Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey leg provides a similar smoky flavor and meaty texture to the soup.

• diced ham - Substitute with bacon: Bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

• chopped carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweet flavor and similar texture when cooked, making them a good alternative to carrots.

• chopped celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and adds a slight anise flavor that can enhance the soup.

• chopped onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks provide a milder onion flavor and a similar texture when cooked.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a vegetarian version of the soup, providing a similar depth of flavor.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano offers a different but complementary herbal note that works well in soups.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami richness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor profile, with a slightly different aroma.

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature 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 each container 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 beautifully, 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 enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the integrity of the split peas and vegetables.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in 1-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 a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
• Enjoy your Instant Pot split pea and ham soup with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the exact amount of dried split peas, chopped vegetables, and chicken broth.

• Knife: Essential for chopping the carrots, celery, and onion.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and ham.

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

• Mixing spoon: Used to stir the soup before serving.

• Tongs: Useful for removing the ham bone from the soup.

• Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves.

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

• Ladle: Ideal for serving the hot soup into bowls.

Rinse the peas in advance: Rinse the split peas the night before to save time during meal prep.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the carrots, celery, and onion ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic.

Instant broth: Use chicken broth from a carton or can to avoid making it from scratch.

Diced ham: Opt for pre-diced ham to skip the chopping step.

Quick release method: After natural pressure release, use the quick release method to speed up the process.