Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe - The Salty Marshmallow (2024)

Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is the quickest way to get this classic soup on the table without skimping on the flavor! It is hearty, healthy and perfect for leftovers.

My name is Natalya and I run the blog Momsdish. I love simple dishes that only require a few ingredients. Growing up in a Ukrainian household, I ate a TON of soups. To get us through the harsh winters, my grandmother would make split pea soup on a weekly basis. I have grown to absolutely love this soup and now, with the creation of the Instant Pot, I can have it on my dinner table in a fraction of the time.

Nothing says comfort quite like a big, steamy bowl of goodness. If you end up loving this recipe and are as obsessed with slurping as I am, try out some of my other favorite soups: Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup, White Bean Soup and Minestrone Soup.

I am excited for you all to try this quick and easy recipe for split pea soup made in an Instant Pot. It blends my two favorite things together — tradition AND convenience! Let’s get started.

What are Split Peas?

Split peas are field peas that are grown specifically for drying. Once dried, they split naturally down the middle. This allows them to cook much faster than other legumes (hooray!). Split peas come in two colors: green or yellow. Both varieties are high in fiber, low in fat and FULL of protein. Yes, this legume is quite impressive!

Should Split Peas be Soaked?

While most other legumes need to soak overnight to soften before cooking, split peas do not. You can simply add them to your soup pot and they will cook in about an hour or two. For this recipe, we will use the Instant Pot and expedite their cooking time even more!

How do you Make Split Pea Soup Thicker?

When cooked all the way through, split peas become thick and creamy. Because of this, you shouldn’t have a problem with your soup turning out too thin. However, if you do run into this issue, fix your watery soup by adding a bit of cornstarch. You could also cube up some potatoes and add them into the mix. The natural starch in the potatoes will act as a thickening agent.

How to Make Split Pea Soup In an Instant Pot

Making split pea soup in the Instant Pot couldn’t be EASIER or QUICKER. First, you will turn the Instant Pot onto the “Saute” setting. Then, you will add the butter, onions and carrots and cook them until softened. Add a touch of salt and pepper and some bay leaves. Finally, you will add the smoked ham, chicken stock, water and split peas. Close the lid and make sure the vent is sealed. Cook on high for 25 minutes. Once cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10-15 minutes. Serve immediately!