Bacon Split Pea Soup Recipe

Bacon Split Pea Soup is made with dried split peas, bacon, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme. This hearty bacon split pea soup recipe creates a comforting dinner that takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

Bacon Split Pea Soup Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) dried split peas (green or yellow, rinsed and sorted)
• 4 slices of bacon (thick-cut, chopped)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: croutons, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil

Bacon Split Pea Soup Instructions

• Rinse the split peas under cold water, removing any debris or discolored peas. Drain and set aside.
• In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
• In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are softened (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Add the rinsed split peas, chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Remove the bay leaf once the split peas are soft. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency (optional). If you prefer a chunky texture, you can skip this step.
• Stir in the reserved cooked bacon. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like croutons, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy warm!

Recipes Tips

• Add Aromatics: Enhance the flavor by sautéing additional aromatics like leeks or shallots along with the onion. Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can also add depth to the soup.
• Texture Variations: For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup using an immersion blender. Alternatively, you can mash some of the peas against the side of the pot with a fork.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick and smokiness. A splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.

How To Store Bacon Split Pea Soup

Refrigerate: Cool the bacon split pea soup completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the pot with a lid. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freeze: For extended storage, freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top freezer bag. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

How To Reheat Leftover Bacon Split Pea Soup

In The Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover bacon split pea soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Reheat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is hot all the way through.

In The Microwave: Place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

On The Stove: Pour the leftover soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat for about 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature.

What To Serve Bacon Split Pea Soup

Bacon split pea soup pairs well with crusty bread, buttered rolls, salad, and garlic bread. It can also be served alongside cheese sticks, grilled cheese sandwiches, pickles, and fresh fruit for better savoring of the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to soak the split peas?

No, soaking split peas is not necessary. They cook relatively quickly compared to other legumes. Just rinse them before use to remove any debris.

How can I make the soup vegetarian or vegan?

To make this soup vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more vegetables for flavor and texture.

What if the soup is too thick?

If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add a little more broth or water while reheating. Stir until you reach your desired consistency.

Try more recipes:

• Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
• Tyler Florence French Onion Soup Recipe
• Beefy Onion Soup Recipe