Instant Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham - Pressure Cooker Recipe
A hearty, warming soup that transforms dried split peas into a thick, comforting meal in just 15 minutes of pressure cooking. Tender ham pieces, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked split peas create a satisfying soup that's perfect for cold days or when you need a filling, protein-rich meal. The Instant Pot makes this traditionally long-simmered soup accessible for weeknight dinners, while the natural pressure release ensures the peas break down completely for the ideal creamy texture without any stirring or monitoring.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups yellow onions, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups ham, diced (from 16-oz bone-in ham steak)
- 1 ½ cups carrots, chopped
- ½ cup celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 carton (32 oz) Progresso reduced sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 ¼ cups dried split peas, (1 lb), sorted, rinsed
Instructions
- 1
Select saute on 6-quart Instant Pot and adjust to normal
- 2
Melt butter in insert
- 3
Add onions, salt and pepper and cook 6 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened
- 4
Select cancel
- 5
Stir in ham, carrots, celery and garlic
- 6
Stir in broth and water, then stir in peas
- 7
Secure lid and set pressure valve to sealing
- 8
Select manual and cook on high pressure 15 minutes
- 9
Select cancel
- 10
Keep pressure valve in sealing position to release pressure naturally
- 11
Stir and let stand 10 minutes
Tips
Natural pressure release is crucial for split peas to break down properly and create the signature thick texture.
Sort through dried split peas before rinsing to remove any small stones or debris that may be mixed in.
Let the soup stand 10 minutes after stirring to allow it to thicken to the proper consistency.
Good to Know
Refrigerate up to 4 days. Soup will thicken when chilled; thin with water or broth when reheating.
Can be made 1-2 days ahead. Flavors improve overnight. Add liquid when reheating as needed.
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip natural pressure release or peas won't break down properly
Avoid quick release which can cause foaming and clog the valve
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use fresh or frozen split peas instead of dried?
No, this recipe is specifically designed for dried split peas. Fresh or frozen would require different cooking times and liquid ratios.
What if my soup is too thick after cooking?
Stir in additional warm broth or water gradually until you reach desired consistency. Split pea soup naturally thickens as it cools.
How long will this soup keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup will thicken when chilled, so add liquid when reheating.