Split Pea Soup
If you’re looking for a warm and satisfying meal, look no further than split pea soup. This creamy, hearty dish not only warms the soul but also provides a wealth of nutrients. With its vibrant green color and rich flavor, it’s an excellent choice for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch. Packed with protein and fiber, split pea soup is as nutritious as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced ham or bacon for added flavor
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 200
– Protein: 13g
– Carbohydrates: 37g
– Fiber: 12g
– Fat: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any debris.
2. In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rinsed split peas to the pot.
6. Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
8. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Once the peas are tender, remove the bay leaf.
10. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option. You can also add different vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Serve your split pea soup with crusty bread or a side salad. It pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if it thickens.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the split peas can lead to grit in the soup.
- Overcooking can cause the peas to become mushy.
- Skipping the sauté step may result in a less flavorful soup.
- Not adjusting seasoning at the end can leave the soup bland.
- Using too much liquid can dilute the flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Soak the split peas for a few hours for quicker cooking.
- Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.
- Experiment with spices like cumin or thyme for added depth.
- Blend only half for a chunky texture.
FAQs
Can I use dried peas instead of split peas?
Yes, you can use dried peas, but they will require a longer cooking time and may need to be soaked beforehand.
How long does split pea soup last in the fridge?
Split pea soup can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just add the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is split pea soup gluten-free?
Yes, split pea soup is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten products.
Can I add meat to my split pea soup?
Yes, diced ham or bacon can be added for extra flavor, making it a heartier meal.
How can I thicken my split pea soup?
If your soup is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or blend a portion of it for a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
Split pea soup is a delightful dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for a family meal or meal prep. Enjoy this classic recipe and make it your own with various ingredients and spices!
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: diced ham or bacon
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water.
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the rinsed split peas to the pot.
- Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the peas are tender, remove the bay leaf.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
