Split pea soup is a beloved, soul-warming dish that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful, nourishing meal.
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Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a wholesome lunch to power you through the day, split pea soup fits the bill. Rich in protein and fiber, it's not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. In this recipe, we'll walk you through the steps to make a classic split pea soup, along with helpful tips and answers to common questions.
What is Split Pea Soup?
Split pea soup is a traditional dish made from dried split peas, vegetables, and seasonings, often cooked with a smoky flavor from ham or bacon. The dish is naturally thick and creamy, thanks to the starch in the peas, which breaks down as they cook. This soup is both nourishing and affordable, making it a great option for families and anyone looking for a satisfying meal on a budget.
Ingredients:
For this classic split pea soup recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb dried split peas (green or yellow)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or unsalted butter)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth (you can use water, but broth adds more flavor)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (optional, but recommended for added richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Split Peas
Start by rinsing the dried split peas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Set them aside in a bowl. While split peas don't require soaking, rinsing is an essential step to ensure that no small stones or impurities make their way into your soup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings
Once the vegetables are tender, add the rinsed split peas to the pot. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and stir in the bay leaf and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are soft and begin to break apart. The soup will naturally thicken as the peas cook.
4. Add the Ham (Optional)
If you're using ham, add the diced ham to the soup about 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time. The ham will infuse the soup with a rich, smoky flavor, and the small pieces will break down into the soup as it cooks.
5. Blend (Optional)
For a smoother, creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer part of the soup (or all of it) to a blender in batches and puree until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier consistency, you can skip this step and leave the soup as is.
6. Season and Finish
Once the peas are soft and the soup has reached your desired consistency, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to balance the richness of the soup.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, if desired. Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.
Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup:
- Soaking Split Peas: While soaking is not necessary, it can reduce cooking time. If you soak your peas overnight, you may only need to cook them for 45 minutes instead of 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Smoked Meat: For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks or smoked turkey legs in place of regular ham. These add a wonderful depth of smokiness.
- Thickening the Soup: If the soup is too thin after cooking, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the peas against the side of the pot to help thicken it.
- Freezing: Split pea soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months. When reheating, you may need to add a little more broth or water as the soup can thicken during storage.
FAQs About Split Pea Soup:
1. Can I make split pea soup without ham? Yes! Split pea soup can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The peas themselves are naturally hearty and flavorful, so the soup will still taste delicious without meat. You can also add extra herbs or a smoked paprika for that smoky depth of flavor.
2. How do I store leftover split pea soup? Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. If you want to keep it longer, split pea soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra liquid if necessary.
3. Can I use yellow split peas instead of green split peas? Absolutely! Yellow and green split peas are interchangeable in most recipes. Yellow split peas tend to have a slightly sweeter flavor and result in a lighter-colored soup, but the taste and texture are very similar. Both types are nutritious and will make a hearty soup.
4. How can I make split pea soup spicier? If you like a bit of heat, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the vegetables. Alternatively, stir in a bit of hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper toward the end of cooking to kick up the spice level.
5. How can I make the soup creamier without using dairy? To make the soup creamier without adding cream or dairy, you can use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup. The starch from the split peas will naturally create a creamy texture. You can also add a small amount of coconut milk or cashew cream for extra richness if desired.
6. What can I serve with split pea soup? Split pea soup is delicious on its own or served with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. You can also pair it with a light vinaigrette salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Conclusion:
This classic split pea soup recipe is a comforting and healthy dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its simple ingredients, ease of preparation, and flexibility to suit different dietary needs, it’s a perfect meal to add to your regular rotation. Whether you enjoy it with a smoky ham, made vegetarian, or as a smooth, creamy delight, split pea soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.
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