Cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness! Green split peas are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and when combined with a variety of flavors and textures, they can create some truly magical dishes. From classic soups to creative twists on traditional stews and casseroles, we’ve got 20 hearty green split pea comfort recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of green split peas, exploring the many ways they can be used to create comforting, satisfying meals for any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy soup or a more elaborate casserole, there’s something here for everyone.
Classic Green Split Pea Soup with Ham
A comforting and creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe combines the sweetness of green split peas with the smokiness of ham for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or smoked ham)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the green split peas, diced ham, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or allow it to cool and blend in a blender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Green Split Pea and Potato Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, with the creaminess of split peas and potatoes, and the freshness of green herbs. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rinsed split peas, diced potatoes, vegetable broth, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas and potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Green Split Pea and Carrot Curry
This vibrant curry combines the creamy texture of green split peas with the sweetness of carrots, all wrapped up in a flavorful Indian-inspired spice blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green split peas
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add green split peas, carrots, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until peas are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Green Split Pea and Bacon Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of smoky flavors from the bacon and split peas, with a hint of freshness from the green onions. Serve warm with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 2 cups green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the split peas, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Stir in the butter and crumbled bacon. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Split Pea and Spinach Dal
This Indian-inspired lentil curry is a hearty and comforting meal option, perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch. Made with green split peas, spinach, and aromatic spices, this dal is easy to make and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the green split peas and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Stir in the spinach leaves and lemon juice. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Split Pea and Sausage Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the creamy richness of green split peas with the savory flavor of sausage, perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. In a separate pot, combine peas, chicken broth, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until peas are tender.
5. Combine cooked sausage mixture with pea mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Green Split Pea and Lentil Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and nutritious soup that combines the comfort of split peas and lentils with a hint of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the split peas, lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas and lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Green Split Pea and Coconut Milk Stew
This nourishing stew is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk and nutritious green split peas, making it an ideal comfort food for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the green split peas and soak them in water or broth for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and ground cumin; cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the soaked green split peas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Green Split Pea and Kale Minestrone
This nourishing soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender green split peas and kale in a rich vegetable broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the green split peas, water, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Split Pea and Tomato Basil Soup
This refreshing summer soup combines the sweetness of green split peas with the brightness of fresh tomatoes, all tied together with a hint of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine peas, water or broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Green Split Pea and Sweet Potato Mash
This comforting side dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of green split peas, all blended together for a creamy and satisfying mash.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add green split peas, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Drain sweet potatoes and add them to the saucepan with the pea mixture. Mash all ingredients together using a potato masher or fork until smooth.
6. Stir in vegetable broth until desired consistency is reached.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Green Split Pea and Mushroom Risotto
This vegetarian risotto recipe combines the earthy flavors of green split peas and mushrooms with the creaminess of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Stir in green split peas and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Green Split Pea and Chorizo Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of green split peas with the smokiness of chorizo sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the green split peas, vegetable broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew for 20-25 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
5. Add the cooked chorizo sausage back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Split Pea and Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy soup is the perfect antidote to cold winter days. The combination of green split peas, roasted butternut squash, and aromatic spices creates a deliciously comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add green split peas, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until peas are tender.
3. Scoop the roasted squash flesh into the pot and puree with an immersion blender or regular blender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Green Split Pea and Barley Pilaf
This comforting pilaf combines the creamy texture of green split peas with the nutty flavor of barley, making it a perfect side dish or light meal. With its gentle sweetness and subtle spice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup pearled barley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the green split peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the barley and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the soaked green split peas and 2 cups of water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Split Pea and Leek Gratin
This creamy gratin is a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion. The combination of green split peas, sweet leeks, and crispy breadcrumbs will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green split peas
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, sauté the leeks and onion in olive oil until tender.
3. Add the green split peas, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Transfer the pea mixture to a baking dish. Top with grated cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the gratin is heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Split Pea and Turmeric Stew
This vibrant stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the vegetable broth, green split peas, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Split Pea and Roasted Garlic Dip
Add a burst of flavor to your snack time with this deliciously creamy dip, featuring the sweetness of green split peas and the pungency of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups water
– 4 cloves garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the green split peas and soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse again.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the top off each garlic clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and mashed-like.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked peas, roasted garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including soaking time)
Green Split Pea and Herb-Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of green peppers with the creamy richness of green split peas and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large green bell peppers
– 1 cup cooked green split peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked green split peas, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and basil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the pea mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Split Pea and Smoked Paprika Hummus
This vibrant hummus recipe combines the creamy texture of traditional hummus with the earthy sweetness of green split peas and a smoky kick from smoked paprika. Perfect for snacking or as a dip for your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked green split peas
– 1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine green split peas, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these delicious and comforting green split pea recipes! From classic soups to hearty stews, casseroles, and more, there’s something for everyone. Try the Classic Green Split Pea Soup with Ham or the Creamy Green Split Pea and Potato Stew for a warm and satisfying meal. Or, go international with the Green Split Pea and Carrot Curry or the Green Split Pea and Spinach Dal. Whatever your taste, these 20 recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
