Split Pea Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Split Pea Soup on a chilly evening. The rich, earthy aroma wafts through your kitchen, as the vibrant green color beckons you to dive in. Each spoonful offers a delightful balance of creaminess and hearty texture that warms the soul—perfect for those days when all you want is comfort in a bowl.

Growing up, my grandmother made Split Pea Soup every Sunday. The whole house smelled like magic and nostalgia, and each bite transported me back to simpler times spent with family. Now, whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this soup brings everyone together for an unforgettable experience. Trust me, one bowl won’t be enough; you’ll find yourself longing for seconds—or thirds!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Split Pea Soup:

• Split Peas: Use green or yellow split peas; both provide that classic texture and flavor.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and depth to the soup; choose firm ones for best results.
• Celery: Adds aromatic flavor; opt for fresh celery stalks that are crisp and vibrant.
• Onion: A medium onion will provide essential flavor; dice it finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give a punch of zest; use more if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium options to control salt levels better.
• Bay Leaves: These fragrant leaves enhance flavor; don’t forget to remove them before serving!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Split Pea Soup:

Step 1: Sautéing the Base

In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and add your diced onions, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté until they turn soft—about five minutes should do the trick.

Step 2: Garlic Time

Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling divine!

Step 3: Adding Split Peas

Pour in rinsed split peas along with your broth of choice (vegetable or chicken). Add bay leaves for that extra oomph! Bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Reduce heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot slightly ajar so steam can escape. Allow it to simmer gently for about an hour or until the peas are tender.

Step 5: Blend It Up

Once cooked and tender, remove bay leaves (they’ve done their job) and use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth if desired! If not blending, simply stir well.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste your masterpiece! Add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or croutons on top—the perfect finishing touch!

There you have it—a comforting bowl of Split Pea Soup ready to warm hearts and fill bellies! Enjoy!

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Next, add the split peas, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the peas are tender. Blend for a creamy texture or leave it chunky based on your preference.

Flavor Your Way

Consider swapping out some of the vegetables with carrots or celery for added sweetness. You can also enhance the flavor with spices like smoked paprika or cumin. For a protein boost, throw in some diced ham or crispy bacon.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Sometimes when I made this soup for my family, they would claim they could hear angels singing as they took their first spoonfuls. It’s always heartwarming when comfort food brings smiles to their faces!

FAQs

What is Split Pea Soup?

Split Pea Soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made primarily from dried split peas, which are green or yellow peas that have been peeled and split in half. This soup is often seasoned with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, as well as herbs and spices for added flavor. It’s a comforting meal that is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. The creamy texture of the cooked peas gives the soup a delightful consistency that warms the soul.

How do you make Split Pea Soup?

To make Split Pea Soup, begin by sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot until soft. Then add rinsed split peas, vegetable broth or water, and your choice of seasonings like thyme and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the peas are tender. Blend if desired for a smooth texture or leave it chunky for more body. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Can you freeze Split Pea Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Split Pea Soup quite easily! After cooking and allowing it to cool completely, transfer the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove until it’s heated through.

What are some variations of Split Pea Soup?

There are many delicious variations of Split Pea Soup! You can add diced ham or bacon for a smoky flavor if you prefer a meatier version. For a twist on tradition, try incorporating spices like curry powder or ginger for an exotic touch. You can also add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added nutrition. Each variation enhances the base flavor of split peas while providing unique tastes that cater to different palates.

Conclusion

In summary, Split Pea Soup is an easy-to-make dish that is both nutritious and filling. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish, its versatility allows for numerous variations tailored to your taste preferences. This comforting soup not only provides warmth but also delivers essential nutrients thanks to its high protein and fiber content. Try making your own batch of Split Pea Soup today for a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome!

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Split Pea Soup

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• Author: William Castellanos
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines green or yellow split peas with aromatic vegetables, creating a creamy and nutritious bowl that warms both body and soul. Every spoonful offers a delightful blend of flavors that will transport you to nostalgic family gatherings. Ideal for meal prep or cozy dinners, this soup is sure to impress without the fuss.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil, onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add rinsed split peas, broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour until peas are tender, keeping the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
5. Remove bay leaves; blend the soup until smooth if desired, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or croutons.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 245g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 13g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg