Instant Pot Split Pea and Ham Soup Recipe

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

Ham bone: Adds depth and a smoky flavor to the soup. If not available, use diced ham.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the soup.

Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.

Celery: Provides a subtle bitterness and crunch.

Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor.

Bay leaf: Infuses the soup with a subtle herbal note.

Dried thyme: Adds an earthy and slightly minty flavor.

Chicken broth: Forms the liquid base of the soup, adding richness and depth.

When preparing split peas for this recipe, ensure you thoroughly rinse and sort them to remove any debris or small stones. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture in your soup. Additionally, when using a ham bone, consider simmering it in the chicken broth for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients to extract maximum flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of your Instant Pot Split Pea and Ham Soup.

• dried split peas - Substitute with dried lentils: Dried lentils cook faster and have a similar texture and flavor profile to split peas.

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

• diced ham - Substitute with diced smoked sausage: Smoked sausage offers a similar savory and smoky flavor.

• onion - Substitute with leek: Leeks provide a milder, sweeter flavor that complements the soup well.

• carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter taste and similar texture when cooked.

• celery stalks - Substitute with fennel stalks: Fennel stalks add a subtle anise flavor and similar crunch.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, more nuanced flavor compared to garlic.

• bay leaf - Substitute with thyme sprigs: Thyme sprigs provide a similar earthy flavor and aromatic quality.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar depth of flavor and keeps the dish vegetarian if desired.

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the split peas and ham.
• Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. For easy portioning, 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 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 comforting texture.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the integrity of the vegetables and ham.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between.
• If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. The flavors might need a little boost after being stored.

• For stovetop reheating, pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup has thickened too much.

• In the microwave, transfer a portion of the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Adjust the time based on your microwave's power.

• Using an Instant Pot, select the sauté function and add the soup. Stir frequently and heat until warmed through. This method is great for maintaining the soup's texture.

• For oven reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have a slow cooker, transfer the soup to the slow cooker and set it on low. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect for a hands-off approach and keeps the soup warm for serving.

• 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.

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

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

• Garlic press: A tool used to mince the garlic cloves quickly and easily.

• Wooden spoon: Used for stirring the ingredients in the Instant Pot.

• Ladle: Used for serving the soup once it is cooked.

• Tongs: Used to remove the ham bone from the soup.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the dried thyme and other seasonings.

• Colander: Used to rinse and sort the split peas before adding them to the Instant Pot.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic the night before to save time.

Use pre-diced ham: Buy pre-diced ham to eliminate the need for cutting.

Rinse peas efficiently: Use a fine mesh strainer to quickly rinse and sort split peas.

Instant pot settings: Familiarize yourself with your Instant Pot settings to avoid delays.

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

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the thyme and other spices ahead of time.