Barefoot Contessa Split Pea Soup Recipe

Soup is the kind of comfort food that can wrap you in a warm embrace, especially when it’s cold outside or you’re in need of something hearty and nutritious. Split pea soup has been a classic favorite for generations, known for its velvety texture and hearty flavors. If you’re craving a bowl of this timeless dish, there’s one recipe that stands out in the crowd-Barefoot Contessa’s Split Pea Soup. Created by the renowned chef Ina Garten, this version is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekends.

What’s so special about Barefoot Contessa Split Pea Soup? It’s simple, wholesome, and loaded with flavor. The natural sweetness of the peas, combined with the savory depth of ham and vegetables, creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a full meal in one bowl-rich in protein, fiber, and all the things that make you feel good.

Let’s dive into the details of how to make this iconic recipe, why it works so well, and how you can tweak it to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, you’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness and ease that this recipe brings to the table.

Barefoot Contessa Split Pea Soup Recipe

This Barefoot Contessa Split Pea Soup recipe is a standout because of its depth of flavor and creamy texture. The addition of ham and fresh vegetables brings a savory richness that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the split peas. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make Ina Garten’s signature split pea soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and picked over
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian version)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 pound ham, diced (leftover ham or ham hocks work well)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

This list is simple and features ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. It’s a balance of veggies, stock, and split peas, with just the right touch of herbs and seasoning to make it incredibly flavorful. The ham adds a savory punch, while the fresh thyme gives the soup an earthy, fragrant note.

Cooking Instructions

Making this split pea soup is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps to create a rich, hearty soup:

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting the garlic become fragrant.
4. Add the split peas, chicken stock, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas are completely tender.
6. When the peas are soft, stir in the ham. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the ham to warm through and infuse its flavors into the soup.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the bay leaf.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

That’s it! A delicious, homemade split pea soup in just about two hours. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a thick and comforting soup.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup serves a distinct purpose, contributing not only to the flavor but also to the overall nutritional value of the dish. Here’s a breakdown:

• Split Peas: The star of the dish. Split peas are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate. Their subtle, earthy flavor makes them the perfect base for this soup.
• Ham: Adds richness and depth to the soup. If you use leftover ham, it’s a great way to repurpose meat and reduce waste. Plus, the smoky flavor of the ham gives the soup a savory finish that ties all the other ingredients together.
• Vegetables (Onions, Carrots, Celery): These aromatic vegetables provide the foundation for the soup’s flavor. Carrots offer a natural sweetness, while celery contributes a fresh, herbal note. Onions build the base of flavor and add a little sweetness as they cook down.
• Chicken Stock: Provides the liquid base for the soup, and its rich flavor helps create a balanced broth that enhances the peas’ natural taste.
• Herbs (Bay Leaf, Thyme): These herbs bring out the deep, aromatic essence of the soup. Thyme adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor, while the bay leaf infuses a subtle, savory richness.

Expert Tips

Here are a few expert tips to take your split pea soup to the next level:

• Use homemade stock: If you have time, use homemade chicken or vegetable stock for a more robust flavor. It’s the base of the soup, and a rich stock will make all the difference.
• Cook the peas thoroughly: Split peas should be soft and almost falling apart by the end of the cooking process. If they’re still firm after the designated cooking time, continue simmering and adding more liquid as needed.
• Blend for a creamy texture: If you prefer a smoother, creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to overblend if you like a bit of texture.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to sneak in more veggies like potatoes, parsnips, or spinach. These additions can increase the nutritional value and bulk up the soup, making it even more satisfying.

Recipe Variations

While the classic Barefoot Contessa Split Pea Soup is perfect on its own, there are several ways to tweak this recipe to fit your tastes or dietary preferences:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and use vegetable stock. You can add a little smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the depth that the ham would provide. Tofu or tempeh can also be used for added protein.
• Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add some heat by tossing in a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add a bit of curry powder for an exotic twist.
• Add Potatoes: For a thicker and heartier texture, toss in a couple of peeled and diced potatoes. The starches in the potatoes help create a creamy base.
• Bacon: If you prefer a smoky flavor but don’t have ham, crispy bacon is an excellent alternative. It can be crumbled and stirred in at the end for that perfect crunchy bite.

Final Words

Barefoot Contessa’s Split Pea Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something wonderful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is easy to follow, incredibly flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table. It’s perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of any leftover ham from a holiday feast.