🥣 Instant Pot Canadian Split Pea Soup : A Hearty Classic in a Fraction of the Time
When the temperatures drop and the skies turn gray, there’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of something cozy. And if you grew up in a Canadian home—or even just visited one in winter—there’s a good chance you’ve experienced the humble yet unforgettable comfort of split pea soup. Traditionally, it simmered on the stove for hours, filling the house with rich, savory aromas. But today, your Instant Pot can recreate that same nostalgia, minus the wait.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Instant Pot Canadian Split Pea Soup—fast, flavorful, and wholesome. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or looking to recreate a childhood favorite with healthier, pork-free ingredients, this guide has you covered.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Crave This Soup All Winter Long
Nourishment That Feels Like a Hug
Some dishes don’t just fill your stomach—they nourish your spirit. This split pea soup is one of those rare meals that hits every note: warm, filling, full of flavor, and incredibly good for you. With fiber-rich yellow split peas, antioxidant-loaded veggies, and herbs that soothe and satisfy, you’re feeding your body and soul in every spoonful.
A True Taste of Canadian Tradition
Split pea soup has deep roots in Canadian cuisine, particularly in French Canadian households where it’s known as “soupe aux pois.” Traditionally made with salted meats, this modern version keeps the essence but skips the pork, focusing on clean ingredients you can feel good about.
Instant Pot = Instant Gratification
Let’s face it—modern life doesn’t always allow for three hours of simmering. Your Instant Pot brings everything together in under an hour, without losing the depth of flavor you expect from a slow-cooked dish.
Ingredients: Simple, Clean, and Pork-Free
Here’s what you’ll need to create a hearty batch of Instant Pot Canadian Split Pea Soup. No processed ingredients, no alcohol, no pork—just clean, honest food.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yellow split peas (dried) | 2 cups |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Carrots, diced | 2 large |
| Celery stalks, chopped | 2 ribs |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Low-sodium vegetable broth | 6 cups |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
Optional Add-Ins:
- Green peas for extra sweetness
- Diced sweet potato for added creaminess
- Cooked shredded chicken for more protein
Step-by-Step: How to Make Instant Pot Canadian Split Pea Soup
Making this soup in the Instant Pot is a game changer. It takes what once was an all-day affair and turns it into a one-pot wonder ready in under an hour.
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Heat the olive oil, then add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until everything softens and the smell turns irresistible.
2. Add the Good Stuff
Add your rinsed split peas, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth. Stir well, scraping the bottom to avoid the dreaded “burn” message.
3. Pressure Cook to Perfection
Close the lid and set your Instant Pot to High Pressure for 15 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
4. Taste and Blend (Optional)
Remove the bay leaf and taste your soup. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup.
5. Serve It Up
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for Flawless Results Every Time
- Don’t salt too early – Adding salt before cooking can toughen split peas. Always season at the end.
- No soaking required – Unlike beans, split peas cook quickly under pressure without pre-soaking.
- Smoked paprika = magic – It adds a depth of flavor that mimics the smokiness of traditional ham without using any meat.
- Blending is optional – For rustic texture, leave it chunky. For a silky finish, blend away.
Nutritional Highlights: Comfort Meets Clean Eating
Split peas are nutritional powerhouses. They’re naturally high in:
- Plant-based protein (up to 16g per serving)
- Dietary fiber (around 14g)
- Iron, magnesium, and folate
Combined with fresh veggies and a good-quality broth, this soup keeps you full longer without heavy fats or processed ingredients.
Data Source: USDA FoodData Central
Serving Ideas to Make It a Full Meal
Pair your Instant Pot Canadian Split Pea Soup with:
- A slice of whole-grain toast or garlic flatbread
- A simple side salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted root vegetables for a hearty boost
This soup also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store individual portions for quick weekday meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I substitute green split peas for yellow?
Yes. Green split peas have a slightly earthier flavor but work just as well in this recipe.
Do I need to soak the peas first?
No need. The Instant Pot breaks them down perfectly without any soaking.
Can I add meat to the soup?
You can. Shredded chicken or turkey works well. Just stir it in after cooking.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Let it cool fully before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Wrapping It Up: Tradition in a Bowl, Made for Modern Life
This Instant Pot Canadian Split Pea Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a memory waiting to happen. With every spoonful, you’re getting a taste of Canadian heritage reimagined for the pace of today’s kitchen. You’re not cutting corners—you’re simply using smarter tools to serve food that still carries heart, history, and health.
Ready to bring this cozy classic to your kitchen?
👉 Try the recipe today, and don’t forget to freeze a few portions—you’ll thank yourself later!
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