Why the Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When I think about comfort food, Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup immediately comes to mind.
It’s the perfect blend of heartiness and warmth, making it ideal for chilly days. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; I can toss everything into the crockpot and let it do all the work.
The flavors meld beautifully over hours, creating a rich, savory experience. Plus, it’s nutritious, packed with protein and fiber.
I love that it fills my home with a delightful aroma, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
It’s truly a cozy meal that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients of Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup
When you’re ready to plunge into making a warm, comforting bowl of Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup, the first step is gathering your ingredients. This soup isn’t only delicious but also super easy to prepare. It requires just a few simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Plus, with the smoky flavor of the turkey mixed with the earthy split peas and vibrant veggies, you’re in for a treat. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chopped cooked smoked turkey (or cooked turkey sausage)
- 3 medium carrots, coarsely chopped (1-1/2 cups)
- 1 large yellow sweet pepper or 1 large green sweet pepper, coarsely chopped (1 cup)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil, crushed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth (42 ounces total)
Now, let’s chat a bit about some of these ingredients. If you’re like me, you might’ve a love-hate relationship with split peas—those little green (or yellow) nuggets can seem intimidating at first. But trust me, once they cook down, they create this wonderfully smooth texture that’s oh-so-satisfying. And don’t worry if you can’t find smoked turkey; turkey sausage makes a great substitute, too. Just be sure to use a cooked variety to keep things simple. And if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, don’t sweat it. Garlic powder can step in like a trusty sidekick. It’s all about making this recipe work for you, so feel free to swap or add ingredients as you see fit. Cooking should feel good, after all.
How to Make Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup
Alright, let’s get this soup party started! The first thing you want to do is grab your trusty 3-1/2 or 4-quart crockpot. Seriously, this is where the magic happens. Start by taking 2 1/2 cups of dried split peas—yes, those little green gems that seem like they could use a pep talk—and give them a good rinse and drain. This step is essential, as it helps to wash away any dust or impurities clinging to their surface.
Once they’re all clean, toss those split peas right into the crockpot. Now, it’s time for the star of the show: 2 cups of chopped cooked smoked turkey. If you’ve got turkey sausage instead, that’ll work too—just make sure it’s already cooked. Who wants to mess with raw meat in a slow cooker? Not me.
Next, grab 3 medium carrots and chop them up into bite-sized pieces; you want about 1-1/2 cups of coarsely chopped carrots. They add a lovely sweetness to the soup and make it feel oh-so-homey. Toss those in with the split peas and turkey.
Then, it’s time for a splash of color. Choose between a large yellow sweet pepper or a large green sweet pepper—either one will do just splendidly. You’ll need about 1 cup, coarsely chopped, so chop away! Now add in 1 medium onion (chopped) and 2 minced garlic cloves—these will bring that aromatic goodness that makes your kitchen smell divine.
Now, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and dried oregano. If you’re like me and forget to check your spice rack, this might be your opportunity to channel your inner “Barefoot Contessa” and get creative.
Finally, pour in 3 cans of chicken broth—make sure they add up to 42 ounces total. This is the liquid gold that brings it all together. Once everything is in the crockpot, give it a gentle stir, cover it up, and set it to cook on low for 10-12 hours or high for 5-6 hours.
Yes, it really is that easy. Just imagine coming home to a warm, inviting aroma wafting through your home after a long day. I mean, who wouldn’t want that? So, sit back, relax, and let that crockpot do its thing. You’ll be rewarded with a hearty bowl of comfort when it’s all said and done.
Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy a hearty bowl of Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup while sticking to a low-carb diet, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
Instead of split peas, consider using cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. You can swap out carrots for zucchini or spinach to keep the veggie content high without the carbs.
For added protein, try adding in some diced chicken or turkey sausage. If you want more flavor, toss in some chopped celery or use a low-sodium broth.
These tweaks will keep your soup delicious and diet-friendly!
What to Serve with Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup
Serving Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup alongside the right accompaniments can elevate your meal experience.
I love pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread or a warm baguette; the bread’s texture complements the soup perfectly.
A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.
For a heartier option, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can brighten the flavors, too.
These additions not only enhance the meal but also create a balanced dining experience that I truly enjoy.
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
Pairing Crockpot Split Pea and Smoked Turkey Soup with lighter accompaniments can help keep your meal balanced without sacrificing flavor.
I like to serve it with a fresh side salad, using non-fat dressing to cut calories. You can also swap out the smoked turkey for a leaner option, like shredded rotisserie chicken, which still adds great taste.
If you’re craving extra texture, consider adding steamed veggies instead of bread or crackers.
Finally, I sometimes use low-sodium broth to reduce sodium and calorie counts, ensuring I enjoy my soup guilt-free while staying healthy!