Hearty Instant Pot Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Potatoes

Cozy Up with Hearty Instant Pot Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Potatoes

Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of warm, hearty soup on a chilly day? This Hearty Instant Pot Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Potatoes is a family favorite, and for good reason! It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make (thanks to the Instant Pot!), and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

We’ve taken the classic split pea soup and elevated it with smoky bacon and tender potatoes. The Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time significantly, making this a quick and convenient option without sacrificing that slow-cooked flavor. Forget spending hours simmering on the stovetop – this soup is ready in under an hour!

What makes this soup so special?

• Flavorful Base: The combination of bacon, carrots, and onion creates a rich and savory base for the soup.
• Creamy Texture: Split peas naturally thicken the soup, creating a wonderfully creamy texture without needing to add any cream.
• Hearty and Filling: The addition of potatoes makes this soup extra hearty and filling – perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Instant Pot Convenience: The Instant Pot makes this soup incredibly easy to make, saving you time and effort.

Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup:

• Soaking the Peas: While not strictly necessary, soaking the split peas for about 30 minutes helps them cook faster and become even creamier. We recommend covering them with hot tap water while you prep the other ingredients.
• Bacon is Key: Don’t skimp on the bacon! It adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the soup. You can use any type of bacon you prefer.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender or in a regular blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
• Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a crusty bread for dipping.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a swirl of cream.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

This Hearty Instant Pot Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Potatoes is sure to become a new family favorite. Give it a try and let us know what you think!

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
• Can I use ham hock instead of bacon? Absolutely! A ham hock will add a similar smoky flavor to the soup.
• Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• What kind of split peas should I use? Green split peas are the most common and work best in this recipe.
• Can I use an electric pressure cooker other than an Instant Pot? Yes, as long as it has similar pressure settings and cooking times.