Split pea soup is a comforting dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia with every spoonful. This hearty soup is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrition, making it a perfect choice for a cozy evening or a wholesome lunch. With its smooth texture and earthy taste, split pea soup is a beloved recipe across many cultures. The combination of split peas, vegetables, and herbs creates a delightful medley of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Why We Love This Split Pea Soup Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this split pea soup recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time. You can whip it up in a single pot, which means less hassle and easy cleanup afterward. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal option or simply want to enjoy a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, this recipe delivers everything you need. Moreover, it is budget-friendly thanks to its simple ingredients, allowing you to make a filling dish without breaking the bank. The soul-soothing aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers on the stove will make you feel right at home. Plus, it’s a versatile dish, perfect for adapting with personal touches or leftover ingredients.
Ingredients about Split Pea Soup
To prepare a delicious split pea soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
- 8 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients combine to create a flavor-packed, nutritious soup that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
How to Make Split Pea Soup Directions
Making split pea soup is a straightforward process. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can make the soup bitter.
Next, stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly. You’ll want to add depth to the flavors at this stage, so toss in the dried thyme and the bay leaf. After that, it’s time to introduce the star of the show: the split peas. Add the rinsed split peas to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth or water. Give everything a good stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The split peas will break down as they cook, turning the soup into a creamy texture. If you find the soup is too thick, feel free to add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Once the split peas are fully cooked and soft, remove the bay leaf from the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to your liking. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the soup with an immersion blender for a few seconds or transfer it to a traditional blender in batches. Just be cautious, as the soup will be hot.
After blending, return the soup to the pot and reheat if necessary. Serve it warm, and prepare for a hearty and delightful meal.
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Serving split pea soup is as enjoyable as making it. Ladle the soup into bowls, and for an added touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of this delicious soup.
For a more filling meal, consider serving the soup with a side salad or a simple sandwich. The rich, creamy texture of the soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider offering toppings like croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or even some grated cheese on the side. This way, your guests can customize their bowls to their liking, making it a delightful and interactive dining experience.
Expert Tips: Split Pea Soup
When it comes to split pea soup, a few expert tips can elevate your cooking game. First, always rinse your split peas before cooking. This helps remove any dirt or impurities and ensures a cleaner flavor. If you want to add extra richness to your soup, consider sautéing some additional vegetables or herbs before adding the peas.
To enhance the soup’s flavor further, you can use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought. This allows you to control the salt levels and infuse the broth with your favorite herbs and spices. If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider adding a few smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke; it can take your soup to another level.
Remember, split pea soup thickens as it cools. If you make a large batch, you may want to add a bit of water or broth when reheating. Lastly, let your soup rest! Allowing your split pea soup to sit for a few hours or overnight can improve the flavors as they meld together.
How to Store Split Pea Soup
Storing split pea soup is simple and practical. If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to store it for a more extended period, consider freezing it.
To freeze split pea soup, portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. When ready to use, simply pull a portion from the freezer, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat it on the stove. This way, you’ll always have a comforting meal on hand whenever you need it.
Variation of Split Pea Soup
The beauty of split pea soup lies in its versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious, you can easily customize it to suit your palate. Consider adding different vegetables like potato, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
For a spicy kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. If you want to experiment with flavor profiles, try incorporating herbs like dill or rosemary instead of thyme.
If you’re following a specific diet, you can easily make split pea soup vegan by ensuring that the broth is plant-based. Some people prefer to add grains like quinoa or barley to make the soup even heartier. Use your creativity and adapt the recipe to what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. The possibilities are endless!
FAQ
What are the health benefits of split pea soup?
Split pea soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s rich in fiber, which promotes digestion and helps keep you feeling full. The ingredients in the soup, such as vegetables and herbs, provide essential vitamins and minerals. With low calories and high protein content, it’s an excellent choice for a healthy meal.
How long does it take to cook split pea soup?
Cooking split pea soup typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. However, it is best to simmer it longer if you have the time, as this helps develop the flavors.
Can I use fresh split peas instead of dried ones?
Dried split peas are recommended for this soup recipe, as they yield a better texture and flavor. Fresh split peas may not produce the same creamy consistency.
Is there any substitute for split peas?
If you don’t have split peas, you can use lentils as a substitute, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary. Green or brown lentils cook more quickly than split peas, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I make split pea soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To prepare split pea soup in a slow cooker, combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. This is a fantastic option for meal-prepping and ensures that the soup’s flavors are well-developed.
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained Rinse to remove dirt and impurities.
- 8 cups vegetable broth or water Homemade broth enhances flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Do not burn to avoid bitterness.
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust after cooking.
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add diced carrots and celery, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Stir in dried thyme and bay leaf.
- Add rinsed split peas and vegetable broth or water. Stir to combine.
Cooking
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover the pot.
- Simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- If the soup thickens too much, add more broth or water.
- Once cooked, remove bay leaf and season with salt and pepper.
- Blend with an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or sandwiches.
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