Bacon and Split Pea Soup Recipe

This bacon and split pea soup recipe is made with dried split peas, bacon, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and a few flavorful seasonings. This hearty bacon and split pea soup recipe creates a comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. It takes about 1 hour to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

Bacon and Split Pea Soup Ingredients

• 1 pound (about 450g) dried split peas
• 6 cups (1.4 liters) water or chicken broth
• 6 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
• Optional: 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier texture

Bacon and Split Pea Soup Instructions

1. Rinse the split peas under cold water and drain.
2. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
3. In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the pot. Add the rinsed split peas, water or chicken broth, bay leaf, and optional thyme.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 45-60 minutes or until the split peas are tender, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the split peas are cooked, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Use an immersion blender or transfer portions of the soup to a blender to puree until smooth, depending on your desired consistency.
8. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for added creaminess.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Use Smoked Bacon: Opt for smoked bacon to add a rich and smoky flavor to the soup. The smokiness complements the earthy taste of split peas.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh thyme or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor. It brightens up the soup and adds a nice herbaceous note.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Take the time to sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until softened. This step helps develop a flavorful base for the soup.

How To Store Bacon and Split Pea Soup

Refrigerate: Allow the bacon and split pea soup to cool completely. Transfer the soup to an airtight container or cover the pot with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: To extend the storage life, freeze the soup. First, let the soup cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or divide it into portions and place in freezer bags. Ensure the soup is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. The bacon and split pea soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

How To Reheat Leftover Bacon and Split Pea Soup

On the Stove: Transfer the leftover soup to a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

In The Microwave: Place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Adjust the heating time based on your microwave’s power and the amount of soup.

In The Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is hot all the way through.

What To Serve Bacon and Split Pea Soup

Bacon and Split Pea Soup pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, garlic bread, and roasted vegetables. It also can be served alongside sourdough rolls, steamed rice, cornbread, and a fruit salad for better savoring of the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ham instead of bacon in this soup?

Yes, you can substitute diced ham for bacon if preferred. Add the diced ham during the cooking process to infuse its flavor into the soup.

How do I adjust the consistency of the soup?

If the soup is too thick after cooking, you can add more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, if you prefer a thicker soup, use less liquid when initially cooking.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by omitting the bacon. Instead, use vegetable broth for cooking and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.

Try more recipes:

• Bean Sprout Soup Recipe
• Banana Pepper Soup Recipe
• Bean and Bacon Soup Recipes