Split Peas
Split peas are field peas (a different variety from garden peas) that have been harvested when mature, dried, and then split along their natural seam. They come in green and yellow varieties and are the foundation of one of the world's great comfort soups. Unlike most dried legumes, they require no soaking — their split nature allows them to cook relatively quickly.
Green Split Peas: Slightly more earthy and robust flavor. The classic choice for traditional split pea soup in North America and northern Europe. Retain more of the grassy, herbal notes of fresh peas.
Yellow Split Peas: Milder and slightly sweeter. Used in Indian dal (chana dal is similar), Scandinavian gule ærter, and Caribbean dishes. The yellow color makes a more visually appealing pale soup.
Cooked: Split peas dissolve into a thick, smooth, almost creamy consistency when fully cooked — they don't hold their shape like lentils. This self-thickening property is what makes split pea soup so naturally hearty and satisfying.
Flavor: Earthy, slightly sweet, and deeply savory when cooked with smoked meat or aromatics. A rich, comforting flavor profile that is one of the defining tastes of northern European and North American winter cooking.
Split Pea Soup
The definitive preparation — simmer with ham hock, mirepoix, and bay leaves until thick and creamy.
Dal
Yellow split peas cooked Indian-style with turmeric, cumin, and tempered whole spices.
Fritters
Soak, grind, and fry split peas into crispy fritters — common throughout South Asia and the Caribbean.
Purée
Cook and blend with butter and cream for a refined, smooth purée to serve alongside roasted meats.
• No soaking required — they cook in 45–60 minutes without pre-soaking
• Rinse well before cooking to remove any debris and dust
• Don't add salt until the peas have fully softened — salt can toughen the skins if added too early
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 year. Older split peas may take longer to cook. Cooked split pea soup keeps 5 days refrigerated and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.