# Healthy Split Pea Soup

- Link: https://lifeandwork.blog/healthy-split-pea-soup/
- Published: 2026-09-28T07:19:26-05:00
- Author: Bert Swope

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is made from dried
peas or split peas. It is a traditional food of many cultures. The soup is often
yellow or greyish green in color, depending on the variety of peas used. Although
these types of peas vary from region to region, they are all cultivars of the genus
Pisum sativum.

## Split pea soup origin

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) has a long and
storied history. It originated in Germany, where it was invented by Johann Heinrich
Gruneberg. This soup has also been sold in Athens, Greece, and Canada. It is not
to be confused with green pea soup, which is made from green peas and ham hock.

Split peas are dried green peas with their outer membranes removed. Before refrigeration,
this method was used to preserve peas. These days, frozen peas are readily available
at grocery stores, and [split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/)
is often made with them. It can also be made with sweet peas, which are smaller 
and covered in hairs.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is a great choice
for the long Canadian winter. It can be made with dried peas, salt pork, and herbs.
However, most Canadians choose to cook it with canned Habitant soup. It spread to
other regions of Canada through Quebecois cuisine. Traditional Quebecois pea soup,
also called soupe aux pois, is made from whole yellow peas. It is often served with
dark rye bread.

Today, it is widely available in grocery stores, thanks to the Habitant brand. However,
regional variations of this soup exist as well. In Quebec, for example, many people
replace ham hock with salted pork or roasted ham for a more authentic taste. In 
Newfoundland, the dish is traditionally served after the Easter Sunday meal. The
leftover ham from the previous meal is used to flavor the pea soup. It is also traditionally
served with large dumplings.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) origins go back
as far as ancient Roman cooking. Originally, it was made with fresh green peas, 
but some people later switched to split peas during the winter. However, it has 
remained a classic French dish, even today. [Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/)
is thick, hearty, and satisfying.

The Dutch version of pea soup is thicker and more substantial and is a blend of 
peas, pork, and various vegetables. The peas are usually added after the vegetables
have softened, and a little paprika is added if necessary. The peas are then simmered
for about an hour and a half.

## Homemade split pea soup nutrition

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is a complete 
meal packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. In fact, it ranks among the Grade
A foods. Its nutritional content includes vitamin A, which is essential for vision
and contributes to skin health and immune system function. The soup also contains
high amounts of vitamin B6 and vitamin C. In addition, split pea soup is a good 
source of dietary fiber and manganese.

Adding a little cornstarch is easy to add flavor to [split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/).
The trick is to whisk the cornstarch with cold water to prevent it from clumping.
You can also add cream as a thickening agent. However, you should add it at the 
end of the cooking process. The liquid in boiling soup can curdle into floating 
chunks if the cream is not added in time.

To prepare split pea soup, start by cooking the split peas. Then, add carrots, celery,
onions, and garlic. You can also add fresh cilantro and parsley to the soup. After
adding these ingredients, simmer for 90 minutes. Once the peas are cooked, serve
the soup with a garnish of chopped parsley or cilantro.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is high in vitamin
K, which supports overall health. It helps the body respond to injuries and promotes
blood clotting. Without these clotting agents, victims of injuries risk a loss of
a large amount of blood. Vitamin K activates the enzymes that produce these clotting
agents, and this protects the body against serious blood loss. A single serving 
of [split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) contains about
18 micrograms of vitamin K, or fifteen percent of the recommended daily allowance.

While split peas are often confused with lentils, they are actually two separate
legumes. Split peas are grown for drying, while lentils are harvested as seeds. 
Both types of legumes are hearty and nutritious. However, they have varying nutritional
content, with green split peas being more sweet and yellow split peas being milder
and more starchy.

## Protein in split pea soup

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is a delicious
soup that is high in protein. The dried pea is used to make it. This traditional
dish is a part of many cultures around the world. [Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/)
is typically a yellow or greyish green color, depending on the region and variety
of peas used. All peas are cultivars of the plant Pisum sativum.

Split peas contain 18 grams of plant-based protein per 100 grams. This makes them
a powerful food that is low in fat and calories. One serving contains just under
300 calories and only 4 grams of fat. This nutritious vegetable also helps control
blood sugar levels. It is a great source of fiber.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is also rich in
vitamins and minerals. It is ranked as a Grade A food and has numerous health benefits.
It is also a good source of molybdenum, a mineral that can help prevent certain 
types of cancer. It also contains high amounts of vitamin A, which helps improve
vision and is essential for skin and immune system health. It also contains high
amounts of vitamin B6 and vitamin C. It is also high in dietary fiber and manganese.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is a nutritious
and filling soup made with basic ingredients that can be found in your kitchen. 
The soup is rich in vegetable protein and tastes great with crackers, crusty bread,
or gluten-free rolls. You can add vegetables like carrots and celery, garlic, and
yellow potatoes for extra flavor. The soup thickens after about an hour of cooking.
Once it has thickened, remove the lid and enjoy!

Split pea soup is high in fiber and protein. It is an ideal soup for those who are
trying to eat healthier and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Using a slow cooker to
prepare [split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is a healthy
and satisfying meal that will fill your stomach with protein and fiber. The soup
can be made in a large stock pot. Cook it for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the
amount of ingredients.

Split peas contain about 0.4g of fat per serving, which is low and not a major source
of healthy fats. They are naturally free of cholesterol, which makes them ideal 
for those who are on a low-cholesterol diet. One serving of cooked split peas provides
about eight grams of protein. The United States Dietary Guidelines recommend that
adults consume 46-56 grams of protein per day. Split peas can provide 14 to 18 percent
of your daily protein needs, making it a great choice for vegetarians and people
on a budget.

## Split pea soup is good for the soul

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is full of nutrients
and flavor and is a delicious way to start your day. A bowl of this hearty soup 
is also good for your body and soul. This classic soup is rich in fiber and protein
and is sure to keep you warm during a cold day. If you want a little more oomph,
try garnishing it with ham and cream.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is a great way
to clean your liver and aid digestion. You can also thicken it by adding more water.
If it is too watery, add some nutritional yeast to the pot. Lastly, serve with a
side salad or grilled cheese. If you don’t have any of these ingredients on hand,
you can buy some at the grocery store.

Split peas are small enough that they don’t require soaking, so you can easily substitute
them with canned beans. You can also substitute a ham bone with split peas, but 
the soup won’t be as flavorful without the bone. Split peas are also a good source
of fiber and protein and are low in fat.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is also a great
vegetarian option. You can omit the ham and use only smoked chiles if you’re vegan.
However, if you don’t like ham, you can use rashers of bacon instead. They will 
add extra flavor and creaminess to the soup.

[Split pea soup](https://lifeandwork.blog/split-pea-soup-recipe/) is great for your
soul, and can be a vegan or vegetarian dinner that will warm your body and soul.
It’s easy to prepare and is rich in flavor. It’s also dairy and gluten-free and 
makes for a filling vegetarian meal. Its tiny peas are incredibly nutritious.

## Split Pea Soup Recipe

Here’s a delicious and nutritious recipe for Split Pea Soup with Parsnips, complete
with both U.S. and metric measurements. This recipe is designed for home cooks looking
for a hearty and healthy meal.

### Ingredients:

 * **Dried split peas**: 1 lb (about 2 cups / 450 g)
 * **Parsnips**: 3 medium, peeled and diced (about 1 cup / 225 g)
 * **Carrots**: 2 large, peeled and diced (about 1 cup / 225 g)
 * **Celery stalks**: 2, chopped (about 1 cup / 225 g)
 * **Onion**: 1 large, chopped (about 1 cup / 225 g)
 * **Garlic cloves**: 2, minced
 * **Low-sodium vegetable broth**: 6 cups (1.4 liters)
 * **Bay leaves**: 2
 * **Dried thyme**: 1 tsp (5 mL)
 * **Salt**: to taste
 * **Pepper**: to taste
 * **Olive oil**: 1 tbsp (15 mL)
 * **Fresh parsley**: for garnish, chopped
 * **Lemon juice**: 1 tbsp (15 mL), optional for brightness

### Instructions:

 1. **Prepare the Ingredients**:
 2.  * Rinse the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear.
     * Peel and dice the parsnips, carrots, and chop the celery and onion.
 3. **Sauté the Vegetables**:
 4.  * In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
     * Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and parsnips. Cook for about 5-7 minutes
       until the vegetables start to soften.
     * Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
 5. **Cook the Soup**:
 6.  * Add the rinsed split peas to the pot along with the vegetable broth, bay leaves,
       and thyme.
     * Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer.
     * Cover and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the peas are tender and the
       soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
 7. **Season and Finish**:
 8.  * Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
     * Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot to your desired
       consistency. Alternatively, you can blend the soup in batches using a regular
       blender.
     * Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add lemon juice if using, for
       an extra zing.
     * Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

### Tips:

 * **Consistency**: If the soup is too thick after blending, you can thin it with
   a little more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
 * **Storage**: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and freezes
   well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to
   serve.

Enjoy your homemade, healthy Split Pea Soup with the added sweetness and nutrients
of parsnips!

How To Make Split Pea Soup

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