Split Pea Soup

This comforting Split Pea Soup is a classic dish known for its rich, earthy flavors and hearty texture. Made with a combination of vegetables, split peas, and aromatic herbs, it’s an easy and filling meal that’s perfect for cooler weather. Whether served as a main or a side dish, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup diced potatoes (optional, for extra heartiness)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Add the Split Peas and Broth: Pour in the rinsed split peas and broth. Stir everything to combine, then bring the soup to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the split peas and vegetables are tender. If you’re adding potatoes, stir them in at the beginning so they can cook along with the rest of the ingredients.
5. Season: Once the peas are tender, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve the soup hot.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings

Variations

• Add Meat: For a non-vegetarian option, you can add ham, bacon, or sausage to the soup for extra flavor and protein.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup to give it some heat.
• Creamy Texture: For a creamier version, blend some or all of the soup with an immersion blender.
• Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to add more depth to the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding extra broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peas instead of dried split peas? No, frozen peas don’t have the same texture or cooking time as dried split peas. It’s best to use dried split peas for this recipe.
2. Can I use other types of beans? While split peas are traditional in this soup, other legumes like lentils or chickpeas can be used as alternatives, though cooking times may vary.
3. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, Split Pea Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. How can I make this soup vegan? Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the soup plant-based.
5. Can I add more vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, kale, or parsnips to increase the nutritional value.
6. Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in a slow cooker. Just be sure to sauté the onions, carrots, and celery first.
7. What if I don’t have thyme? If you don’t have dried thyme, you can substitute it with dried oregano or basil for a different flavor profile.
8. Can I make this soup spicier? Yes, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the soup to give it a spicy kick.
9. How can I thicken the soup? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup or mash some of the vegetables to create a smoother consistency.
10. How do I know when the split peas are done? Split peas are done when they are soft and have broken apart. If they still seem firm, let them simmer for a little longer.

Conclusion

Split Pea Soup is a comforting, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s a recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this hearty soup will keep you full and satisfied.

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