Creamy Yellow Split Pea Soup Instant Pot

Our favorite way to enjoy yellow split peas? At Ethiopian restaurants! This soup is inspired by the flavors of Ethiopian Atir Kik Alicha (Yellow Split Pea Stew), but with a creamy twist. Just an Instant Pot and 9 ingredients required. Let us show you how it’s done!

Origins of Split Pea Soup

It’s believed that split pea soup was enjoyed by the Greeks and Romans as far back as 400-500 BC. And it’s been made in varying forms in many countries and continents around the world, including Canada, several European countries, African countries, the Caribbean, and beyond! The following is our creamy, plant-based version using yellow split peas and spices commonly used in Ethiopian split pea stew.

Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

The Instant Pot is our preferred method for cooking split peas because they cook in less than half the time they take on the stovetop. Plus, they get perfectly tender with no soaking required! To evoke the flavors of Ethiopian split pea stew, we include onion, garlic, ginger, and turmeric, plus a healthy pinch of black pepper to enhance the health benefits and bioavailability of the turmeric. Once the water and vegetable broth go in, the Instant Pot does its speedy cooking magic (just 15 minutes!). Once the pressure has released, coconut milk is added for creaminess. To make it even more smooth and creamy, you can optionally purée with an immersion blender. We hope you LOVE this split pea soup! It’s:CreamyGingerySavoryFlavorfulComforting& Delicious! It’s perfect as a main dish or side, and especially magical topped with cubed roasted sweet potatoes. It also pairs well with naan, gluten-free naan, roasted carrots, and/or coconut curried greens.