Quick Split Pea Soup Recipe

A heavy grey sky always makes me crave something thick and simmering on the stove for hours. The slow transformation of dried legumes into a creamy broth is one of my favorite kitchen rituals during the winter months.

This Split Pea Soup relies on smoked turkey wings to provide that deep, savory backbone usually associated with ham. It fills the kitchen with a rich, smoky aroma that promises a satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup

You simply toss everything into the pot and let the slow simmer break the peas down into a naturally creamy consistency. There is no need for a blender or heavy cream to achieve that velvety texture.

The addition of fresh thyme and a bay leaf lifts the earthy flavor of the dried peas. These herbs cut through the richness of the smoked meat for a balanced bite.

It thickens beautifully in the fridge, making lunch the next day even better than the first bowl. You can easily thin it out with a little water or stock when reheating.

If you enjoyed this warming bowl, my Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Soup brings that same satisfying texture, and the Easy Biscuit Vegetable Pot Pie Recipe has become a regular in my meal rotation.

Everything You Need for Perfect Split Pea Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Dried Split Peas: Green or yellow varieties both work well and create a dense base.
• Smoked Turkey Wings: Adds a deep, savory flavor similar to ham but without the pork.
• Vegetable Broth: Provides the liquid foundation for the soup; low sodium is best to control saltiness.
• Carrots: Diced small to add a subtle sweetness and bright color.
• Celery Stalks: Brings a necessary aromatic crunch and freshness.
• Yellow Onion: The essential savory base for the soup.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced for a sharp, aromatic kick.
• Fresh Thyme: Earthy herbal notes that complement the peas.
• Bay Leaf: Adds a layer of complexity to the simmering broth.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

My Method for Split Pea Soup

Let’s get cooking!

1. Begin by rinsing the split peas thoroughly under cold water in a colander. I always take a moment to sift through them with my fingers to ensure there are no small stones or debris hiding among the legumes. While they drain, heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking them until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables begin to soften, which usually takes about five to seven minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Add the rinsed split peas, smoked turkey wings, fresh thyme sprigs, and the bay leaf to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything gently to combine. If the liquid doesn’t fully cover the ingredients, add just enough water to submerge everything by about an inch.
3. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce it to a low simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Let the soup cook undisturbed for about 60 to 75 minutes. You will know it is ready when the peas have completely broken down and the soup has thickened significantly.
4. Carefully remove the smoked turkey wings from the pot and set them on a cutting board to cool slightly. Discard the bay leaf and thyme stems. Once the turkey is cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones and discard the skin and cartilage. Stir the tender meat back into the soup and season with salt and pepper to your taste before serving hot.

My Split Pea Soup Secrets

Always sort through the dried peas on a baking sheet to check for any small stones or debris before rinsing. This quick step prevents any unpleasant gritty surprises in your final dish.

If the Split Pea Soup becomes too thick while cooking, stir in splashes of water or extra broth until it reaches your preferred texture. The peas absorb a tremendous amount of liquid as they break down.

Wait to season with salt until the very end since the stock and smoked meat contribute plenty of sodium during the simmer. Tasting deeply before salting ensures you don’t overdo it.

How I Like to Serve This Split Pea Soup

A slice of crusty sourdough bread is essential for scooping up every last bit of the savory broth. The crunch of the crust contrasts wonderfully with the smooth, thick soup.

I often finish each bowl of Split Pea Soup with a crack of black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color to the presentation.

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Smoky Split Pea Soup

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• Author: Amelia Bryan
• Total Time: 1 hr 35 min
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Dairy-Free

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Description

A thick and hearty split pea soup flavored with smoked turkey wings and fresh vegetables. Naturally creamy and perfect for cold weather.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 3 large carrots, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 2 smoked turkey wings or legs
• 8 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 dried bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Water (if needed for thinning)

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Instructions

1. Rinse and sort the split peas to remove any debris. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion, celery, and carrots for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the split peas, smoked turkey wings, thyme, bay leaf, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 70-80 minutes until peas are completely soft and soup is thick.
5. Remove turkey wings, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard bones, skin, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.

Notes

If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender before adding the shredded meat back in.

• Prep Time: 15 min
• Resting Time: 10 min
• Cook Time: 1 hr 20 min
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 16g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: split pea soup, hearty soup, smoked turkey soup, winter dinner, dairy free soup