Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Utilizes the Instant Pot to significantly reduce cooking time without compromising on flavor.

• Flavorful: Combines tender beef with aromatic vegetables and herbs for a deeply satisfying taste.

• Economical: A great way to make use of simple pantry staples and create a nourishing meal.

• Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from split peas and vegetables.

• Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for meal prep; freezes well for future quick meals.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound dried split peas (green or yellow)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ pound beef stew meat, finely diced

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 ribs celery, diced

• 2 large carrots, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups beef or chicken broth

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Rinse and drain the split peas thoroughly.

2. Set a 6-quart Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil, then add diced beef, onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until onions are tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Add the split peas, broth, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot.

4. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 17 minutes.

5. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

6. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Shred or break up any larger pieces of beef if needed.

7. Stir in chopped fresh parsley and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 4 servings (about 7 cups total)

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

• Creamier Texture: Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before adding parsley.

• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate diced potatoes, parsnips, or bell peppers for extra variety.

• Herb Infusion: Try rosemary or oregano for a different herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 6 months.

• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

FAQs

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead. Adding smoked paprika can help replicate a deeper flavor.

Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?

No, soaking split peas is not necessary for this recipe, especially when using an Instant Pot. However, soaking can reduce cooking time slightly and may aid in digestion.

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?

Yes, yellow split peas can be used interchangeably with green split peas in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What if I don’t have stew meat?

You can use ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips as an alternative. Just make sure to brown them well during the sauté step.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Sauté the vegetables and beef in a large pot, add the remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, then simmer until the peas are tender, which may take 1–2 hours.

How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup. Alternatively, simmer the soup uncovered to allow it to reduce.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, provided that the broth and any added ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I add other spices?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, coriander, or curry powder to suit your taste preferences.

What are good side dishes to serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a simple sandwich pair well with this hearty soup.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure your Instant Pot has enough capacity. Do not exceed the maximum fill line.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Split Pea Soup with beef is a nourishing, flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a quick family dinner or planning ahead with freezer meals, this hearty soup is a delicious, wholesome choice you’ll turn to again and again.