Turkish Split Pea Soup – Easy, Healthy, Flavor-Packed Dinner

If you’ve been craving a cozy, hearty meal that tastes like it simmered all day but actually comes together in minutes, Turkish Split Pea Soup is your new weeknight hero. It’s creamy (without any cream), bursting with earthy spices, and surprisingly filling for a vegan dish. Think of it as comfort food with a Mediterranean twist—warm cumin, a hint of paprika, and that little squeeze of lemon that wakes everything up.

The best part? You can toss it together in your Instant Pot while you handle the million other things on your list (because we all know dinner shouldn’t take over your evening). Whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based or just want a break from chicken soup, this Turkish Split Pea Soup is wholesome, flavorful, and ready in under 40 minutes. Plus, your kitchen will smell like a Turkish café by the time it’s done—minus the airfare.

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What is Turkish Split Pea Soup?

Turkish Split Pea Soup is a thick, flavorful soup (some might even call it a stew) made with yellow split peas, aromatic spices, and a touch of lemon for brightness. Traditional Turkish cuisine often includes hearty legumes, and this dish is a humble yet nourishing staple—simple ingredients that transform into pure comfort. It’s rich in protein and fiber but completely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans or anyone trying to add more meatless meals into the rotation.

In Turkey, you’ll find variations of this soup served with yogurt and bread, sometimes blended silky smooth or left chunky for a rustic feel. This version lands right in the middle—creamy enough to feel indulgent but still dotted with colorful veggies. When you pair that with the convenience of the Instant Pot, you get authentic Turkish flavor without the long simmer time.

Reasons to Try Turkish Split Pea Soup

If you’re still wondering whether Turkish Split Pea Soup belongs in your meal plan, let’s make it clear: it’s ridiculously easy and ridiculously good. First, it’s budget-friendly—split peas and veggies cost next to nothing but cook up into a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Second, it’s loaded with plant-based protein, so it’ll actually keep you full (no snacking an hour later).

Third, it’s the kind of soup that tastes even better the next day, which means meal prep just got easier. Plus, you can tweak it however you like: make it spicy with a bit more chili powder, blend it for a smoother texture, or thin it out for a lighter soup. And finally, there’s that lemon—one squeeze transforms it from cozy to vibrant. Honestly, once you try this, you might start craving it more than your usual lentil soup.

Ingredients Needed to Make Turkish Split Pea Soup

• 1.5 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 white onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced into small cubes
• 1 celery stick, diced into cubes
• 5 cloves garlic, finely diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon paprika powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons cumin powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper
• 2 cups yellow split peas, rinsed well
• ½ cup chopped tinned tomatoes
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1.5 liters vegetable stock (or 6 cups water + 3 vegetable stock cubes)
• To serve: chopped chives or scallions, extra lemon, and yogurt (optional)

Instructions to Make Turkish Split Pea Soup

Making Turkish Split Pea Soup in your Instant Pot couldn’t be simpler, but let’s break it down step by step so you can follow along confidently. This isn’t just a “dump and go” meal—each step builds layers of flavor that make this soup rich, fragrant, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re a kitchen pro or just starting out, these directions will help you create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Step 1: Sauté Your Base Vegetables (Step by Step)

Start by pressing the Sauté button on your Instant Pot. Wait until the display reads “Normal”—that’s your cue the pot is hot enough to start cooking. Add 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, then toss in the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook these for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally so they soften evenly and don’t burn. You’ll notice the onion turning translucent and releasing that irresistible aroma that signals flavor is being built from the ground up.
This step may seem simple, but it’s essential—those caramelized edges from sautéing add depth that you’ll taste in every spoonful. For even more tips on how to layer flavor in soups, check out my guide in Easy Chicken and Rice Soup, where I explain how sautéing vegetables properly sets the tone for the entire dish.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices (Step by Step)

Once your veggies are softened, stir in the garlic, bay leaf, paprika, cumin, salt, cinnamon, and chili powder. Let the mixture cook for about 30 seconds while stirring—this helps “wake up” the spices. You’ll notice a warm, smoky scent filling your kitchen; that’s exactly what you want.
Now, add in the rinsed yellow split peas, chopped tomatoes, and fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together so the peas and vegetables are well coated with the spice mixture. This step is where the Turkish Split Pea Soup starts to take shape, combining earthy, citrusy, and slightly spicy notes into one harmonious base.

If you ever find yourself missing one of these spices, don’t stress. You can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry. For example, cayenne can replace chili powder, or smoked paprika adds an extra layer of flavor. For more inspiration, see my flavor guide in Curried Sweet Potato Soup, where spice adjustments are explained in detail.

Step 3: Add the Stock and Cancel Sauté Mode (Step by Step)

Pour in your vegetable stock—about 1.5 liters or six cups—and give everything a good stir to combine. This is when the soup officially transforms into something magical. You’ll see bits of vegetables and spices swirling together, promising a thick, flavorful result. Cancel the Sauté mode now so your Instant Pot stops heating, which prevents overcooking before pressure cooking begins.

If you prefer a thinner consistency for your Turkish Split Pea Soup, you can add a little extra stock or water at this stage. Don’t worry if it seems too brothy; the peas will absorb a lot of liquid as they cook.

Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection (Step by Step)

Secure the Instant Pot lid and turn the steam release handle to Sealing. Select Manual or Pressure Cook on high for 10 minutes. Once you hear the three confirmation beeps, take a moment to relax—the hard work is done! The Instant Pot will now build pressure and cook everything to soft, creamy perfection.

When the timer goes off, let the pressure naturally release for 4–5 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to Venting for a quick release. This controlled release prevents hot soup from splattering. Once the pressure indicator drops, it’s safe to open the lid.

A little pro tip: if you’re new to Instant Pot cooking, my post on Creamy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup shares helpful pressure cooking and slow cooker conversion tricks. It’s a lifesaver for getting cozy meals on the table quickly.

Step 5: Stir, Taste, and Adjust (Step by Step)

Open the lid and give your Turkish Split Pea Soup a good stir. The peas should have softened completely, creating a thick, stew-like texture. If it feels too thick for your liking, pour in a bit more stock and stir until it reaches your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning—add another pinch of salt, a little more lemon juice, or even a touch of chili if you like heat.

This is the perfect moment to make it your own. You could blend it with an immersion blender for a creamier version or leave it chunky to show off the veggies. Personally, I love the rustic texture because it keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish (Step by Step)

Now for the fun part—serving! Ladle your Turkish Split Pea Soup into bowls and top each with chopped chives or scallions. Add a generous squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. If you’re not vegan, a dollop of plain yogurt makes it creamy and cooling. For a plant-based twist, coconut yogurt adds a tropical note that pairs beautifully with the spices.

Pair this soup with crusty bread or a light side like Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots for a balanced, colorful meal. The combination of earthy soup and sweet roasted vegetables creates a complete dinner that feels cozy but fresh.

If you’re in the mood for another comforting dish, try Irish Vegetarian Stew, which has a similar hearty texture and makes excellent leftovers.

Step 7: Save for Later (Step by Step)

This soup keeps beautifully for meal prep. Let it cool completely before transferring it into containers. It will thicken as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of stock or water to loosen it back up. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to five days and freezes well for up to three months.

If you love prepping ahead, check out Easy Green Pea Soup with Fresh Basil, which stores just as easily and tastes even better the next day—just like this Turkish Split Pea Soup.

By following these step by step directions, you’ll create a soup that’s nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for cozy evenings or quick weekday lunches. Every step adds meaning and magic to the final bowl—proof that with the right spices and a little patience, even the simplest ingredients can become something truly memorable.

What to Serve with Turkish Split Pea Soup

This soup is a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, you’ve got options. Serve it with crusty sourdough or warm pita bread for dipping—it’s a match made in carb heaven. A side of crisp cucumber salad or a light Mediterranean green salad balances the richness beautifully. If you’re planning a dinner spread, pair it with something like Coconut Crusted Fish with Mango Salsa for a vibrant contrast of flavors. Or, for another cozy bowl option, try Easy Green Pea Soup with Fresh Basil. Whatever you choose, keep it fresh and bright to complement the deep, spiced notes of the soup.

Key Tips for Making Turkish Split Pea Soup

Want your Turkish Split Pea Soup to turn out perfect every time? Here are a few pro tips. First, rinse your split peas really well—this helps them cook evenly and prevents foam from forming. Second, if you like a thinner consistency, add an extra cup of stock after cooking.

Third, don’t skip the lemon! It brings all the flavors together. If you’re short on time, you can sauté your veggies right in the Instant Pot insert the night before—then just add the rest and cook when you get home. Finally, taste before serving and adjust your salt and spice levels; every batch of stock is a little different, and a pinch here or there makes a big difference.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Turkish Split Pea Soup

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store your Turkish Split Pea Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days—it actually tastes better after a night of rest as the flavors deepen. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if it’s too thick.

If you’re microwaving, cover it loosely and heat in 60-second bursts, stirring in between. The soup thickens as it sits, so don’t be afraid to thin it back to your liking. It’s the kind of dish that feels just as satisfying on day three as it did fresh from the pot.

FAQs

Can I make this without an Instant Pot? Absolutely. Just simmer everything on the stovetop for 1–1.5 hours, until the peas are soft.
Can I use green split peas instead of yellow? Sure, though the flavor will be slightly different—earthier and less sweet.
Is this soup spicy? Only mildly. You can dial up or down the chili powder to taste.
Can I blend it? Yes! Use an immersion blender for a creamy texture, or keep it chunky for more bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a bowl of Turkish Split Pea Soup—it’s humble, healthy, and heartwarming all at once. It proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor, especially when you add a dash of spice and a squeeze of lemon. If you’re looking for an easy dinner that nourishes both body and soul, this one deserves a spot in your rotation. For more comforting soups like this, you might love Curried Sweet Potato Soup or Roasted Winter Vegetable Soup. So grab your Instant Pot, your favorite spoon, and let’s make mealtime feel a little more like home.

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