Substitute for Split Peas: 1 Smart Options
The best substitute for split peas is Split peas (canned, drained & rinsed) at a Use 133% ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Split peas (canned, drained & rinsed)
Use 133%
Split peas (canned, drained & rinsed) is a workable stand-in for split peas. Use 133% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for split peas?
Red Lentils
1 cup red lentils per 1 cup split peas
Cook faster than split peas (15-20 minutes vs 45-60 minutes). Break down into a creamy consistency similar to split pea soup.
Flavor/texture:Milder and slightly sweeter than split peas. Less earthy.
Avoid when:Cook much faster, so reduce cooking time significantly. Lighter color (orange/yellow vs green). Slightly different flavor.
Green Lentils
1 cup green lentils per 1 cup split peas
Hold their shape better than split peas when cooked. Similar earthy flavor. Take about 25-30 minutes to cook.
Flavor/texture:Similar earthy flavor but firmer texture. Slightly peppery.
Avoid when:Do not break down as smoothly as split peas. Soup will be chunkier. Different texture in pureed soups.
What should you know before substituting split peas?
Split peas (canned, drained & rinsed) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to split peas in everyday cooking. Use 133% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Use the substitute that gets you closest in texture first, then adjust seasoning after it warms through.
How do you substitute split peas in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for split peas and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Split peas (canned, drained & rinsed) is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 133% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role split peas plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for split peas depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Split peas (canned, drained & rinsed) (Use 133%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Red Lentils (1 cup red lentils per 1 cup split peas) is another reliable choice. Cook faster than split peas (15-20 minutes vs 45-60 minutes). Break down into a creamy consistency similar to split pea soup.
When substituting split peas, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Split Peas?
Split peas (canned, drained & rinsed) is the best place to start for split peas. Use 133% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Split Peas?
This page lists 1 substitute for split peas. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.