[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Split Peas In Instant Pot?

Cooking split peas in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to prepare this nutritious legume. Split peas are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They are commonly used in soups, stews, and porridges, and can be a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Using an Instant Pot to cook split peas not only saves time, but also helps to retain their flavor and nutritional value. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the selection, preparation, cooking times, and troubleshooting tips for cooking split peas in an Instant Pot.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Split Peas In Instant Pot

The quick answer to the cooking time for split peas in an Instant Pot is around 15-20 minutes of high pressure cooking. This time frame can vary slightly depending on the specific type and age of the split peas, as well as personal preferences for the final texture of the peas.

Selection

When selecting split peas for your Instant Pot cooking adventure, it’s important to choose high-quality peas that are free from any signs of moisture, mold, or insect damage. There are two main types of split peas: green and yellow. Green split peas tend to hold their shape better during cooking and have a slightly earthier flavor, while yellow split peas have a milder taste and tend to break down more easily, making them ideal for thickening soups and stews.

You can usually find split peas in the dried goods section of your local grocery store. Look for a reputable brand and always check the expiration date to ensure the peas are fresh. Additionally, if you have the option, selecting organic split peas can ensure that they are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals.

Preparation

Before cooking split peas in an Instant Pot, it’s essential to properly prepare them to ensure a delicious end result. The preparation process includes rinsing, sorting, and soaking the split peas, although soaking is not always necessary. Rinsing the split peas under cold water helps to remove any dirt or debris. For the sorting process, simply look through the split peas and discard any stones or damaged peas that may have made their way into the package.

Soaking the split peas is optional, but can help reduce the cooking time and make them easier to digest. To soak the split peas, place them in a bowl and cover them with water by a few inches. Let them soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. After soaking, drain and rinse the split peas before cooking.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Split Peas

The cooking time for split peas in an Instant Pot can vary slightly depending on factors like the age and type of the peas, as well as personal preference for their final texture. However, as a general guideline, the cooking times for both unsoaked and soaked split peas are as follows:

• Unsoaked Green Split Peas: 15-17 minutes of high pressure cooking
• Soaked Green Split Peas: 8-10 minutes of high pressure cooking
• Unsoaked Yellow Split Peas: 12-15 minutes of high pressure cooking
• Soaked Yellow Split Peas: 6-8 minutes of high pressure cooking

These times are based on cooking the split peas with a 1:2 ratio of split peas to water or broth. For a firmer texture, opt for the shorter cooking times, and for a softer, more creamy texture, use the longer cooking times.

How To Cook Split Peas In Instant Pot

Now that the split peas are selected, prepared, and you are aware of the Instant Pot cooking times, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of actually cooking split peas in an Instant Pot.

Ingredients

• 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• Salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse and Sort: Place the split peas in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Sort through the split peas, discarding any stones or damaged peas.
2. Soaking (Optional): If you opted to soak the split peas, drain and rinse them after the soaking period.
3. Add to Instant Pot: Place the rinsed split peas in the Instant Pot. Add the water or vegetable broth, ensuring that the liquid covers the split peas by at least an inch.
4. Seasoning (Optional): If desired, add a pinch of salt or other seasonings to enhance the flavor of the split peas.
5. Cooking: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and adjust the cooking time based on whether the split peas were soaked or unsoaked, and their color (green or yellow). Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Serve or Store: Once the pressure has been released, carefully open the Instant Pot lid. Stir the cooked split peas and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The split peas can be served immediately as a side dish, added to soups and stews, or stored for later use.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Split Peas Are Crunchy Or Undercooked

If the split peas are still crunchy or undercooked after the designated cooking time, simply close the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes under high pressure. This extra cooking time should help to soften the split peas to the desired consistency.

Split Peas Are Too Mushy

In the event that the split peas become overly mushy, it may be that they were cooked for too long. To avoid this, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes in future attempts. Alternatively, if the split peas are already too mushy, consider using them to thicken soups or puree them for a creamy dip or spread.

Burn Notice

If your Instant Pot displays a "Burn" notice, it may be due to the split peas sticking to the bottom of the pot. To address this issue, carefully release the pressure, open the lid, and stir the split peas. If there are any bits stuck to the bottom, deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of water or broth and scraping the bottom to loosen any stuck pieces. Once the bottom of the pot is clear, resume the cooking process.

Cooking split peas in an Instant Pot is a simple and efficient process that yields delicious and versatile results. By selecting high-quality split peas, properly preparing them, and following the recommended cooking times, you can enjoy tender and flavorful split peas as a standalone side dish or as a delightful addition to various recipes. With the troubleshooting tips in mind, any potential hiccups during the cooking process can be easily addressed, ensuring a successful outcome. Whether you choose to use green or yellow split peas, the Instant Pot provides a convenient method for preparing this nutritious legume, adding a healthy and satisfying element to your culinary creations.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Split Peas

Split peas are a versatile and nutritious legume that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to spreads and side dishes. While traditional stovetop cooking methods can take quite a bit of time and attention, using an Instant Pot can simplify the process and save you valuable time in the kitchen.

When cooking split peas in an Instant Pot, the cook time will depend on whether you are using fresh or frozen peas. If you are using fresh split peas, the cook time will be shorter than if you are using frozen peas. Here are the approximate cook times for each:

1. Fresh Split Peas: To cook fresh split peas in an Instant Pot, use a high-pressure setting and set the cook time for 10-12 minutes. This should give you tender split peas with a slightly al dente texture.

2. Frozen Split Peas: If you are using frozen split peas, you will need to increase the cook time. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook the peas for 15-17 minutes. This extra cook time accounts for the fact that frozen split peas will take longer to soften.

It’s important to note that these cook times are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brand and size of the split peas, as well as the altitude at which you are cooking. It may take a bit of trial and error to find the perfect cook time that suits your taste preferences, so feel free to adjust accordingly.

Achieving Perfect Texture

One of the keys to cooking split peas in an Instant Pot is achieving the perfect texture. You want the split peas to be soft and tender while still maintaining their shape and integrity. Here are a few tips to help you achieve the ideal texture:

1. Rinse the split peas: Before cooking, it’s important to rinse the split peas to remove any dirt or debris. This step will also help prevent the split peas from becoming too mushy during cooking.

2. Use the right amount of liquid: It’s crucial to add enough liquid to the Instant Pot when cooking split peas. A general rule of thumb is to use a ratio of 1 part split peas to 4 parts liquid. This will ensure that the split peas have enough moisture to cook properly and won’t become dry or crunchy.

3. Natural release vs. quick release: After the split peas are done cooking, you have the option to release the pressure naturally or do a quick release. Natural release involves allowing the Instant Pot to depressurize on its own, which can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. This method helps the split peas retain their shape and prevents them from becoming mushy. On the other hand, a quick release allows for a faster depressurization, but may result in slightly softer split peas.

By following these tips, you will be able to achieve the perfect texture for your split peas, whether you prefer them slightly firm or softer and more tender.

Flavor Infusion

While split peas have a delicious and hearty flavor on their own, you can easily infuse them with additional flavors using your Instant Pot. Here are some ideas to enhance the taste of your split peas:

1. Sauté aromatics: Before adding the split peas and liquid to the Instant Pot, consider sautéing some aromatics such as onions, garlic, and spices. Sautéing these ingredients will unlock their flavors and add depth to your split pea dish.

2. Use flavorful liquid: Instead of using plain water, try using vegetable broth or chicken broth to cook your split peas. This will infuse the peas with a savory taste and add an extra layer of richness to your dish.

3. Add herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to season your split peas. Some popular choices include bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, cumin, and turmeric. These spices will add complexity and depth to the flavor profile of your split pea dish.

4. Add vegetables and proteins: To make your split pea dish more hearty and nutritious, consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, as well as proteins such as diced ham or smoked sausage. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

By incorporating these flavor infusion techniques, you can elevate the taste of your split peas and create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Split Peas

In addition to cooking split peas alone in the Instant Pot, there are a few other cooking methods you can try to diversify your split pea repertoire. Here are a couple of options:

1. Split pea soup: To make a creamy split pea soup in the Instant Pot, start by sautéing aromatics such as onions, garlic, and carrots. Then, add your split peas, liquid, and any additional seasonings or vegetables you prefer. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 10-12 minutes for fresh split peas or 15-17 minutes for frozen split peas. After the cooking is complete, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. You can also leave some split peas whole for added texture. Serve the soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and garnish with fresh herbs.

2. Split pea curry: If you’re in the mood for something a bit spicier, try making a split pea curry in the Instant Pot. Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, ginger, and your favorite curry spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Add the split peas, liquid, and any additional vegetables or proteins you desire. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 10-12 minutes for fresh split peas or 15-17 minutes for frozen split peas. Once cooked, you can enjoy the curry as a main dish over rice or as a side dish with naan bread or roti.

By exploring these alternative cooking methods, you can add variety to your split pea dishes and create unique and flavorful meals.

Instant Pot Tips For Split Peas

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when cooking split peas in an Instant Pot:

1. Soak the split peas (optional): While soaking split peas is not necessary, it can help reduce the cooking time and improve the digestibility of the legume. To soak the split peas, simply cover them with water and let them sit for a few hours or overnight. After soaking, drain and rinse the split peas before cooking.

2. Adjust seasonings after cooking: Split peas have a tendency to absorb flavors as they cook. Therefore, it’s a good idea to taste and adjust the seasonings once the split peas are cooked. Add more salt, spices, or herbs as needed to suit your taste.

3. Thicken the dish if desired: If you prefer a thicker consistency for your split peas, you can use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash some of the split peas once they are cooked. This will help release the natural starches in the peas and create a thicker texture.

4. Store leftovers properly: If you have leftover split peas, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can easily reheat the split peas in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to enjoy again.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your split peas turn out perfectly cooked and full of flavor every time.

Creative Instant Pot Split Peas Recipes And Variations

Now that you have a good understanding of how to cook split peas in an Instant Pot, let’s explore some creative recipes and variations to inspire your culinary adventures:

1. Split Pea and Ham Soup: Cook split peas with diced ham, onions, carrots, and celery in the Instant Pot for a classic and comforting split pea soup. Add some thyme and bay leaves for extra flavor.

2. Curried Split Pea and Potato Stew: Make a flavorful curry using split peas, potatoes, onions, garlic, and an array of aromatic spices. Serve over rice for a satisfying and hearty meal.

3. Split Pea and Spinach Dip: Blend cooked split peas with fresh spinach, garlic, lemon juice, and Greek yogurt for a healthy and delicious dip. Serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks for dipping.

4. Vegan Split Pea and Coconut Curry: Create a creamy and vegan curry using split peas, coconut milk, curry spices like turmeric and cumin, and an assortment of vegetables such as sweet potatoes and bell peppers.

5. Split Pea and Sausage Jambalaya: Combine split peas, smoked sausage, onions, bell peppers, and Cajun spices for a flavorful and hearty jambalaya-inspired dish in the Instant Pot.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredient combinations and flavors to create unique and personalized split pea dishes. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Cooking split peas in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this nutritious and versatile legume. By following the recommended cook times, paying attention to achieving the perfect texture, infusing flavors, and exploring different cooking methods, you can create delicious split pea dishes that are suitable for soups, stews, dips, and more. With the helpful tips and creative recipes provided, you are well-equipped to harness the full potential of your Instant Pot and embark on a culinary journey with split peas.

FAQS

Can I Cook Dried Split Peas In The Instant Pot Without Pre-soaking?

Yes, the Instant Pot allows you to cook dried split peas without pre-soaking, saving you time and effort.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Split Peas In The Instant Pot?

The cook time for split peas in the Instant Pot varies depending on the quantity and the type of split peas being used. Generally, it takes about 10-12 minutes on high pressure.

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Split Peas In The Instant Pot?

Yes, it is important to add enough liquid (water or broth) to cover the split peas. This prevents them from burning and ensures they cook evenly.

Can I Add Seasonings And Vegetables To My Split Peas In The Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Adding seasonings and vegetables can enhance the flavor of your split peas. Just make sure to add them after the cooking process as they can become soggy when cooked under pressure.

How Do I Prepare Split Peas For Cooking In The Instant Pot?

Before cooking split peas in the Instant Pot, it is recommended to rinse them in a mesh strainer under cold water. This removes any debris or impurities and ensures they cook evenly.