Savor the creamy delight: ultimate slow cooker yellow split pea recipe for winter evenings

Embark on a culinary adventure with our slow cooker yellow split pea recipe, a hearty and flavorful dish that will warm your soul. With its creamy texture, savory spices, and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is a must-try for busy home cooks and comfort food enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried yellow split peas, picked over and rinsed
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the inside of a 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
2. Add ingredients: Combine the split peas, broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the split peas are tender and creamy.
4. Stir in parsley (optional): If desired, stir in the fresh parsley before serving.
5. Serve: Ladle the split pea soup into bowls and enjoy warm.

Variations

• Ham hock: For a richer flavor, add a smoked ham hock to the slow cooker.
• Bacon: Crisp up some bacon and crumble it over the finished soup.
• Veggies: Add other vegetables to your liking, such as potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste. Try adding paprika, chili powder, or cayenne pepper.

Tips

• Use a good broth: The broth you use will significantly impact the flavor of the soup. Use a high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best results.
• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the soup during the last hour of cooking to prevent burning or drying out.
• Add more liquid: If the soup becomes too thick, add additional broth or water as needed.
• Serve with crusty bread: A crusty loaf of bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up all that delicious soup.

Health Benefits

Yellow split peas are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with:

• Protein: A great source of plant-based protein.
• Fiber: Keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
• Iron: Essential for red blood cell production.
• Potassium: Regulates blood pressure.
• Magnesium: Supports muscle and nerve function.

Comforting and Convenient

Our yellow split pea recipe in the slow cooker is the epitome of comfort food. It’s:

• Warm and cozy: Perfect for a cold winter day.
• Simple to make: Just dump the ingredients in and let the slow cooker do its magic.
• Budget-friendly: Split peas are an affordable ingredient that stretches far.
• Versatile: Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Wrap-Up: A Culinary Delight for All

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, our yellow split pea recipe slow cooker is guaranteed to impress. Its rich flavor, creamy texture, and ease of preparation make it a dish that will become a staple in your meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and let the tantalizing aroma of this culinary delight fill your home.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I use canned split peas instead of dried?
A: Yes, you can use 2 cans (15 ounces each) of rinsed, canned split peas. Reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours on low.
Q: How do I thicken the soup?
A: If the soup is too thin, mash some of the split peas with a fork or potato masher. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken it.
Q: Can I freeze the soup?
A: Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.