When it comes to comfort food, few dishes warm the heart like a bowl of split pea soup. This rich, hearty soup revitalizes cold days and brings a cozy atmosphere into any kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice in the kitchen, this dish is perfect for you. Using just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a nourishing meal that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying.
Why We Love This Split Pea Soup Recipe
This split pea soup recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of savory vegetables and tender ham hock. The natural creaminess of split peas creates a thick and hearty texture without the need for added cream. Plus, it’s highly nutritious, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. You’ll find that making this soup is straightforward and perfect for meal prep. Once you try this recipe, it’s likely to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients about Split Pea Soup
To whip up a delicious pot of split pea soup, gather the following ingredients:
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 cup split peas: Rinse them to remove any dirt.
- 1 ham hock: Adds depth and richness to the soup.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced: For heartiness.
- 1 onion, chopped: Offers a savory base.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a nice crunch and flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The liquid base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings.
- Olive oil for sautéing: To cook the vegetables.
How to Make Split Pea Soup Directions
Creating split pea soup is simpler than you might think. Start by rinsing the split peas under cold water. This step is crucial, as it removes any dust or debris. Once they’re clean, set them aside. In a large pot, add a drizzle of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Next, introduce the onion, chopped carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until they soften, which typically takes about five to seven minutes. As they soften, the aroma will start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
Once the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic and stir for another minute. This allows the garlic to release its flavor into the mixture. After that, combine the rinsed split peas, ham hock, diced potatoes, and broth into the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring the split peas are well mixed with the other ingredients. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow your soup to simmer gently for about one hour; this gives the split peas ample time to become tender and meld with the other flavors.
After the hour is up, it’s time to remove the ham hock. Carefully take it out of the pot, letting it cool slightly before shredding the meat from the bone. Return the shredded meat back into the pot and mix it thoroughly. Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed; this is your chance to adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. Once seasoned to your liking, ladle the soup into bowls and serve it piping hot, ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Serving split pea soup is an experience in itself. When you dish it out, consider the comfort factor—thick, hearty soup is best enjoyed when paired with something light. Place a warm slice of crusty bread or a toasted baguette alongside your bowl. These complement the rich flavor of the soup and provide a lovely texture contrast. You might also consider garnishing the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley, for added flavor and color.
If serving a group, providing toppings can elevate the experience. Consider some finely chopped chives, a dollop of sour cream, or even some freshly grated cheese. Each spoonful can become a bit different, enhancing your dining delight. Don’t forget to offer plenty of napkins, as soup can get a little messy—and that’s part of the fun!
Expert Tips: Split Pea Soup
To ensure your split pea soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, don’t skip the step of rinsing the split peas; this is essential for a clean taste. If you’re looking to enhance the flavor further, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during the simmering process; these will infuse the soup with fragrant notes.
Another great tip is to adjust the thickness of your soup. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before returning the shredded ham hock. Alternatively, if you want it thinner, simply add more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Let your tastebuds guide you! Also, be mindful of the cooking time for the split peas; you want them soft but not mushy. Keeping an eye on them for the last few minutes of cooking will help achieve that perfect texture.
How to Store Split Pea Soup
Storing your split pea soup is simple. Once it has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as soups can expand when frozen.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover soup, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If it’s too thick after being refrigerated, you can add a splash of broth or water to get it to your desired consistency. Stir continuously while heating to ensure it warms evenly.
Variation of Split Pea Soup
While the classic split pea soup is delicious on its own, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations. For a vegetarian twist, skip the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead. You might also add other vegetables like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a nutrient boost. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Another great variation is to incorporate additional proteins. Consider diced chicken or turkey if you want a heartier meal. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, you could use smoked turkey or chicken instead of the hock. Each variation offers a new way to enjoy this beloved soup, making it adaptable to your tastes and dietary preferences.
FAQ
What makes split pea soup so nutritious?
Split pea soup is loaded with protein and fiber, thanks to the split peas, making it a filling and wholesome option. It also contains a variety of veggies that add vitamins and minerals.
Can I make split pea soup without a ham hock?
Yes! You can make a delicious vegetarian version by substituting the ham hock with smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor. Vegetable broth will also enhance the taste.
How do I know when the split peas are done cooking?
The split peas are done when they are tender and can be easily mashed with the back of a spoon. They should not be mushy but rather hold their shape well.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooled down first. It can be stored in airtight freezer containers for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat split pea soup?
You can reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring often. If the soup appears too thick, you can add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Now that you’ve learned about making split pea soup, it’s time to get cooking. With its simple ingredients and easy directions, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas Rinse them to remove any dirt.
- 1 piece ham hock Adds depth and richness to the soup.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced For heartiness.
- 1 piece onion, chopped Offers a savory base.
- 2 pieces carrots, chopped Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped Provides a nice crunch and flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth The liquid base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings.
- olive oil for sautéing To cook the vegetables.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove dust and debris, then set aside.
- In a large pot, add a drizzle of olive oil and heat it over medium heat.
- Introduce the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and stir for another minute to release its flavor.
- Combine the rinsed split peas, ham hock, diced potatoes, and broth into the pot. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce heat to low and allow to simmer gently for about 1 hour.
Finishing Touches
- Remove the ham hock from the pot when the hour is up, letting it cool slightly before shredding the meat from the bone.
- Return the shredded meat back into the pot and mix thoroughly.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, optionally with crusty bread or garnished with fresh herbs.
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