Parker’s Split Pea Soup: Ina Garten’s Hearty Classic Recipe
Discover the robust flavor and homestyle comfort of Ina Garten’s Parker’s Split Pea Soup—a timeless, satisfying meal for all seasons.
Parker’s Split Pea Soup: Ina Garten’s Hearty Classic
Parker’s Split Pea Soup, crafted by acclaimed chef Ina Garten (the Barefoot Contessa), is a beloved staple for comforting, robust meals using staple kitchen ingredients. This well-balanced soup brings together split green peas, fresh vegetables, aromatic seasonings, and, optionally, diced ham—all cooked to tender, flavorful perfection. Whether prepared for a warming winter supper or enjoyed as a nutritious meal any time of year, this soup is both easy and deeply satisfying.
Below, discover everything about this recipe: ingredient details, step-by-step instructions, nutritional insights, serving ideas, helpful tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Recipe Overview
- Level: Easy
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour, 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
- Yield: 5-6 servings
- Category: Soups
- Cuisine: American
- Main Ingredients: Split peas, onions, carrots, potatoes, chicken stock, seasonings
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped yellow onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/8 cup good olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups medium-diced carrots (3 to 4 carrots)
- 1 cup medium-diced red boiling potatoes, unpeeled (3 small)
- 1 pound dried split green peas
- 8 cups chicken stock or water (for vegetarian option)
- Optional: 8 ounces small-diced ham for extra richness
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Sugar (g) | Sodium (mg) | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fiber (g) | Protein (g) | Cholesterol (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 495.41 | 3.42 | 590.75 | 7.81 | 1.03 | 89.62 | 13.82 | 27.3 | 15.19 |
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a 4-quart stockpot on medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper for 10 to 15 minutes, until the onions become translucent.
Tip: Stir often to avoid sticking or burning. - Add Vegetables & Initial Split Peas: Add carrots, potatoes, and half the split peas (about 1/2 pound) to the pot. Pour in chicken stock or water. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer First Phase: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during cooking.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent solids from sticking. - Add Remaining Split Peas: Stir in the remaining split peas and continue to cook uncovered for another 35–40 minutes, or until all peas are soft and the soup has thickened noticeably.
- (Optional) Add Ham: If including ham, add the diced ham in the final 5 minutes, just long enough to warm through without overcooking.
- Season & Serve: Taste for salt and pepper, adjusting as needed. Serve hot—optionally garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and extra freshly ground pepper.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- No Pre-Soaking Needed: Split peas do not need to be pre-soaked, making the preparation quick and convenient.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out chicken stock for water or vegetable broth, and omit ham for a wholesome vegetarian meal.
- Thickening Over Time: Split peas continue to thicken with each reheating as they absorb liquid. Add extra broth or water to loosen soup to desired consistency when reheating.
- Make-Ahead & Storage: This soup freezes beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking and future meals. Store chilled soup in airtight containers for up to five days, and freeze for up to three months.
- Instant Pot Variation: Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic using the ‘Sauté’ function until soft (about 10 minutes). Add remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then finish with a quick release for easy, speedy preparation.
- Flavor Additions: Incorporate fresh herbs, a bay leaf, or a splash of lemon juice to brighten and elevate flavors if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the hearty soup
- Enjoy alongside a slice of crusty bread for a full meal
- Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor
- Serve as a warming main course or a substantial starter at gatherings
About Ina Garten & Parker’s Split Pea Soup
Ina Garten, revered as the Barefoot Contessa, is celebrated for her approachable, delicious home cooking. Parker’s Split Pea Soup appears in both her popular cookbook and on her Food Network television series, and exemplifies Ina’s style—classic comfort, simple preparations, and unfussy, high-quality ingredients. Loved for its rich texture and deep flavor, this soup is a fixture during cold months, though its nutritious, filling qualities make it welcome all year round.
Why Home Cooks Love This Soup
- Hearty and filling—satisfyingly substantial with just a salad for accompaniment
- Accessible pantry ingredients; no fancy equipment or rare spices
- Versatile; accommodates vegetarians and meat-eaters alike
- Batch-cook friendly; ideal for leftovers and freezing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do split peas need to be soaked before cooking?
A: No. Split peas do not require pre-soaking. They cook successfully right from dry in this recipe, saving time and effort.
Q: Can I make Parker’s Split Pea Soup vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use water or vegetable stock in place of chicken stock and omit ham for a fully vegetarian version.
Q: What can I add for extra richness or protein?
A: Diced cooked ham is a popular addition; it’s added near the end of cooking to enhance flavor and make the soup even heartier.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to three months. Pea soups thicken on standing, so add extra liquid and stir well when reheating.
Q: Is there a quick cooking method for busy weeknights?
A: Yes. Prepare this soup in an Instant Pot by sautéing aromatics then high-pressure cooking all ingredients for 15 minutes (natural release for another 15 minutes).
Q: What sides pair well with split pea soup?
A: A crisp salad and rustic bread are classic accompaniments. For more variety, try pairing with roasted vegetables, cheese crostini, or a simple sandwich.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Stir soup frequently throughout preparation and reheating to prevent solids from burning on the bottom of the pot.
- Skim off foam released from split peas during early simmering for a clearer finished soup.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving; split peas can absorb seasonings as they cook.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, partially blend the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
How Parker’s Split Pea Soup Became a Favorite
This recipe, featured in The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook and multiple Food Network episodes, has become a go-to for families and soup lovers alike because of its ease, flexibility, and comforting result. The combination of split peas, simple vegetables, and rich chicken stock creates a deeply savory, thick soup that is nourishing and crowd-pleasing even without long preparation or hard-to-find ingredients.
Conclusion: Warm Up With a Timeless Classic
Ina Garten’s Parker’s Split Pea Soup stands as an enduring classic—hearty, flavorful, and convenient to prepare for cooks at every skill level. Its blend of nutritious split peas, fresh vegetables, and adaptable seasonings offers warmth, comfort, and satisfaction in every bowl. Whether you’re following the recipe as written or adapting to your fridge and pantry, this soup proves that simplicity is the heart of great cooking.
