14/08/2026
Polish Split Pea Soup (Grochówka)
A thick, hearty Polish soup packed with tender split peas, potatoes, smoky bacon, and sausage. Rich, filling, and perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
* 1½ cups dried yellow split peas, rinsed
* 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
* 6 oz smoked bacon, diced
* 10 oz smoked Polish kielbasa, sliced
* 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 2 carrots, sliced
* 1 medium onion, finely chopped
* 2 celery stalks, diced
* 3 garlic cloves, minced
* 2 bay leaves
* 1 tsp dried marjoram
* ½ tsp dried thyme
* ½ tsp smoked paprika
* ½ tsp black pepper
* Salt, to taste
* 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Method
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot until lightly crisp. Add the kielbasa and brown for 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until slightly softened.
3. Add the split peas, broth, bay leaves, marjoram, thyme, paprika, and black pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for about 40 minutes.
5. Add the potatoes and continue cooking for 20–25 minutes, until the peas are very soft and the soup becomes naturally thick.
6. Remove the bay leaves and adjust the salt and pepper.
7. Finish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.