Split Pea Soup Recipe is a comforting and nutritious dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This classic soup is made from dried split peas, vegetables, herbs, and sometimes ham or bacon for added flavor. The hearty and savory flavors of this soup make it a perfect choice for a cozy winter meal. With its thick and creamy texture, it warms you up from the inside out. Whether you are looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, this Split Pea Soup Recipe is sure to be a hit. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create a delicious and satisfying soup that will become a family favorite in no time.
What is Split Pea Soup?
Split pea soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made from dried split peas, vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery, and often flavored with ham or bacon. The split peas break down during cooking, creating a thick, creamy texture. This soup is popular for its comforting flavor and high protein content. It’s simple to make and perfect for cold weather days, providing warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. It’s a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations.
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Video of Split Pea Soup
| – Prep Time | 20 minutes of hands-on prep |
| – Cook Time | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| – Total Time | 1 hour and 50 minutes |
| – Servings | 6 servings |
Split Pea Soup has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. It’s believed to have originated in Egypt and made its way to Europe before becoming popular in North America. This hearty soup is made from dried split peas, vegetables, and sometimes ham or bacon for added flavor. Its thick texture and savory taste make it a comforting and satisfying meal, especially on cold days. Split Pea Soup Recipe is versatile and can be customized with different herbs and spices to suit individual preferences. Its simplicity and affordability have contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a beloved dish enjoyed by many around the world.
For a delicious and nutritious meal, try making your own Split Pea Soup using a classic Split Pea Soup Recipe. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Split Pea Soup Ingredients
For a delicious and hearty Split Pea Soup, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients to bring out the best flavors. Start with dried split peas, which provide a rich, earthy base for the soup. Add in fresh carrots, celery, and onions for a burst of sweetness and crunch. Enhance the flavor with aromatic garlic, savory bay leaves, and fragrant thyme. For added depth, include smoky ham hocks or bacon. With these fresh and flavorful ingredients, your Split Pea Soup will be a comforting and satisfying meal.
- 1 lb dried split peas: rinsed and drained
- 1 ham hock: for flavor
- 1 onion: diced
- 2 carrots: peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks: diced
- 2 cloves garlic: minced
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth: for liquid base
- 1 bay leaf: for seasoning
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Olive oil: for saut ing vegetables
How to Make Split Pea Soup
To prepare a delicious Split Pea Soup, start by soaking dried split peas in water for at least 4 hours. Saut onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot until softened. Add in garlic and herbs, then stir in the split peas and broth. Simmer for 1-2 hours until the peas are tender, then blend part of the soup for a creamy texture.
- Rinse 1 pound of dried split peas in a colander under cold running water and pick out any debris or discolored peas.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and add 1 diced onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 8 cups of vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the split peas, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour until the split peas are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender and puree until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Season the split pea soup with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- For added flavor, you can stir in cooked diced ham or crumbled cooked bacon at this point.
- Allow the soup to simmer for another 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve the split pea soup hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of paprika. Enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.
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Tips for Making Split Pea Soup
When it comes to making a delicious Split Pea Soup, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. Firstly, be sure to soak the split peas overnight to help them cook faster and evenly. Secondly, saut ing your onions, carrots, and celery in butter or oil before adding the broth and peas will enhance the flavor of the soup. Lastly, don’t forget to season generously with herbs like thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper to bring out the earthy flavors of the split peas. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create a comforting and hearty soup that will warm you up on a cold day.
- Use a combination of ham hock and smoked ham for maximum flavor depth in the soup.
- Saut the onions, carrots, and celery in butter until they are caramelized to enhance the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after saut ing the vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
- Rinse the split peas under cold water before adding them to the soup to remove any excess starch and prevent a gummy texture.
- Stir the soup frequently while it simmers to prevent the split peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
- For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup before adding the ham back in.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika to balance out the flavors of the soup.
- Let the soup sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and develop further.
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Directions for Making Split Pea Soup
To make a delicious Split Pea Soup, start by saut ing chopped onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot with olive oil. Add garlic, thyme, and bay leaves for extra flavor. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, split peas, and diced ham. Simmer for about an hour until the peas are soft and the soup is thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot with a side of crusty bread for a comforting meal.
- Rinse 1 pound of dried split peas in a colander under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, saut 1 chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks in olive oil until softened.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 8 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the rinsed split peas to the pot and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and starting to break down.
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs such as thyme or bay leaves.
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or croutons on top, if desired. Enjoy your homemade split pea soup!
Nutrition Facts of Split Pea Soup
Our Split Pea Soup Recipe is a healthy and hearty dish that is packed with essential nutrients. Each serving contains only 150 calories, 1g of fat, 10g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates. This delicious soup is also high in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, making it a nourishing option for any meal.
| Calories | 240 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 16g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 980mg |
Conclusion on Split Pea Soup Recipe
In conclusion, this Split Pea Soup Recipe is a fantastic choice for a delicious and nutritious meal. Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, it is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a comforting meal on a chilly day or as a light lunch option, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. You can also get creative with your serving ideas by adding toppings like croutons, bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream. Additionally, this soup is a great option for meal prep as it can be easily stored and reheated for a quick and convenient meal throughout the week. Overall, this Split Pea Soup Recipe is a versatile and nutritious option that is sure to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation.