Split Pea Soup with Potato, Carrot and Optional Meat

Name: Split Pea Soup with Potato, Carrot and Optional Meat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 85 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Eastern European-inspired
Ingredients: 200 g dried split peas, rinsed and soaked if desired; 1.5 l water or low-sodium broth; 1 whole medium onion, diced; 1 whole carrot, diced; 2 whole medium potatoes, diced; 200 g cooked chicken or smoked meat, optional; 1 whole bay leaf; 1 tbsp oil; 1/2 tsp fine salt, or to taste; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped parsley

A hearty split pea soup with carrots, potatoes and optional chicken or smoked meat.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 1 hr 40 minMakes 6 servings

Jump to Recipe

This split pea soup is a flexible, filling pot made with dried peas, onion, carrot, potato and broth. The source allows chicken, beef or smoked meat; this version keeps meat optional and explains when to add it. Soaking the peas can shorten cooking, but they still need to simmer until fully soft. Add salt near the end because broth and smoked meat can already be salty. Finish with herbs and serve with bread for a simple lunch or supper. Rinse peas and soak 4 hours or overnight if convenient; drain. Combine peas, water or broth and bay leaf in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer partly covered 45 to 60 minutes until beginning to soften.

Split Pea Soup with Potato, Carrot and Optional Meat

How to tell when it is ready

Peas are completely soft; potatoes are tender.

Tips

Rinse peas and sort out debris.
Add water if soup thickens before peas soften.
Add cooked meat near the end.
Taste before adding salt.

Troubleshooting

If the dish cooks unevenly, cut ingredients into similar sizes.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Substitutions

Use a similar neutral cooking oil if needed.
Choose fresh herbs that complement the dish.

Variations

Adjust herbs or seasoning to taste.
Add a pinch of chilli for gentle heat.

Serving suggestions

Serve with rye bread.
Top with parsley.
Add a spoon of sour cream.
Pair with pickled vegetables.

Make ahead

Prepare and measure ingredients in advance; finish cooking shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate up to 3 days; thin with broth or water when reheating.

Food safety

If using raw meat, cook it separately to a safe temperature before adding; refrigerate soup promptly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare suitable components ahead and refrigerate them promptly.

How should I store split pea soup with vegetables?

Refrigerate up to 3 days; thin with broth or water when reheating.

Serve warm and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Split Pea Soup with Potato, Carrot and Optional Meat