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**2. Sauté the Vegetables (Optional but Recommended):**
– If you want to enhance the flavor of your soup, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened slightly and the onions are translucent.
– While this step is optional, it helps to bring out the sweetness of the vegetables and adds a deeper flavor to the soup. Once the vegetables are sautéed, add them to the Crockpot.
**3. Add the Split Peas and Liquid:**
– Add the rinsed split peas to the Crockpot, followed by the vegetable broth. If you’re using a ham hock, add it to the pot at this time. If you’re using diced ham, wait until later in the cooking process to add it.
– Add the **bay leaf**, **dried thyme**, and **salt and pepper** to the Crockpot. Stir everything together to combine.
**4. Slow Cook the Soup:**
– Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on **low for 6-8 hours** or on **high for 4-5 hours**. The split peas should break down, creating a creamy texture as the soup simmers. If you’re using a ham hock, it should become tender and fall apart easily, infusing the soup with smoky flavor.
– If you’re using diced ham, add it to the Crockpot about an hour before the soup finishes cooking to prevent it from getting too overcooked.
**5. Final Touches:**
– Once the soup has cooked and the split peas are tender, remove the ham hock from the pot (if using) and shred the meat from the bone. Discard the bone and return the meat to the soup.
– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
– If you like your soup to be smoother, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can carefully ladle some of the soup into a blender, blend it until smooth, and return it to the pot.
**6. Serve and Enjoy:**
– Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a touch of creaminess and color to the dish.
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### **Tips and Variations for Crockpot Split Pea Soup**
While the basic recipe for **Crockpot Split Pea Soup** is delicious on its own, there are several ways to tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
#### **1. Make It Vegetarian:**
– To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the ham hock and use **vegetable broth** instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables, such as parsnips or leeks, for additional flavor.
#### **2. Add Spices for Extra Flavor:**
– Experiment with additional spices such as **cumin**, **smoked paprika**, or a pinch of **cayenne pepper** for some heat. You can also add a few **fresh herbs** such as rosemary or parsley for a fragrant touch.
#### **3. Add More Vegetables:**
– Feel free to add more vegetables to your soup to enhance its nutritional value and texture. Consider adding **zucchini**, **parsnips**, or **kale**. These vegetables pair well with the earthy flavor of the split peas.
#### **4. Use a Ham Bone:**
– If you have a **ham bone** leftover from a holiday meal, use it in place of
the ham hock for even more flavor. The bone will add a rich, smoky taste to the soup.
#### **5. Make It a Chunkier Soup:**
– If you prefer a chunkier soup, try adding extra diced potatoes or leaving the vegetables in larger pieces. You can also add **cooked bacon** for extra crunch and flavor.
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### **Conclusion**
**Crockpot Split Pea Soup** is the perfect example of a simple, hearty meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a nutritious and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to your family on a chilly evening or enjoying leftovers for lunch, this slow-cooked soup is sure to be a hit.
With its convenience, health benefits, and versatility, **Crockpot Split Pea Soup** is a recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire.
