Split pea soup is a classic dish that’s as nourishing as it is comforting. It’s a simple, hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a wholesome, easy-to-make soup. The following split pea soup recipe combines the traditional elements with a few modern twists for an extra layer of flavor. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying your hand in the kitchen for the first time, this recipe will guide you through making a delicious pot of split pea soup.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound (about 2 cups) dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
8 cups vegetable broth or water (for a vegetarian version) or chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 ham bone (optional, omit for vegetarian version)
2 cups diced ham (optional, omit for vegetarian version)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Add the Split Peas and Liquids: Stir in the dried split peas, then add the vegetable or chicken broth. If using, place the ham bone in the pot. Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, smoked paprika (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick for your liking.
Final Touches: Once the split peas are fully cooked and the soup is at your desired consistency, remove the ham bone (if used). If you’re including diced ham, add it now to heat through.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Optional Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Simply omit the ham bone and diced ham. Consider adding more vegetables, like diced potatoes or mushrooms, for added texture and flavor.
Smoky Flavor: If you’re not using a ham bone but love a smoky taste, increase the smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke.
Creamier Texture: For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
Split pea soup is a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. It’s a satisfying meal on its own but can also be served with crusty bread or a side salad for a more substantial meal. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delicious warmth this soup brings to your table.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Split pea soup is not only delicious fresh but also stores and reheats well, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat your soup:
Cooling: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can dilute the soup and affect its texture.
Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers and refrigerate. Split pea soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors often deepen over time, making the leftovers even more flavorful.
Freezing: Split pea soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it with a little water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat the soup in the microwave, stirring every minute to ensure it heats evenly.
Nutritional Benefits:
Split pea soup is not just comforting; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits, making it a healthy choice for any meal:
High in Protein: Split peas are a great source of plant-based protein, making this soup filling and satisfying. Adding ham increases the protein content, but the vegetarian version is still protein-rich.
Fiber-Rich: High in dietary fiber, split peas help promote digestive health and can aid in cholesterol management.
Vitamins and Minerals: This soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals from its vegetable ingredients, including vitamin A from the carrots, vitamin C from the parsley, and various B vitamins from the split peas.
Low in Fat: When made with vegetable broth and without the addition of ham, split pea soup is low in fat, making it a heart-healthy option.
Serving Suggestions:
Split pea soup is hearty enough to serve as a main course, but here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the soup.
Green Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast to the meal.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a truly comforting meal, serve split pea soup with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side.
This split pea soup recipe offers a blend of traditional flavors with the flexibility to adapt to your dietary preferences. Whether you prefer the classic version with ham or a vegetarian alternative, this soup is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Its ease of preparation, nutritional benefits, and comforting taste make split pea soup a perfect choice for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a nourishing meal prep option.
