Split pea soup is a hearty and comforting dish that has warmed the hearts of many for generations. This delicious soup is made from split peas, which are dried green or yellow peas that have been split in half. Their smooth texture and rich flavor create a creamy, filling soup that is perfect for chilly days. The addition of vegetables and seasonings enhances the natural taste of the peas, making each bowl a nourishing delight. Whether you are cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, split pea soup is a classic favorite that brings comfort and satisfaction.
Why We Love This Split Pea Soup Recipe
There’s something undeniably delightful about a warm bowl of split pea soup. It’s not just the flavor that makes it special; it’s the way it brings people together. This recipe offers a balance of comforting ingredients that come together effortlessly, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug. The ham hock adds a savory depth to the soup, while the vegetables provide various textures and nutrients. Whether it’s your first time making soup or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time.
Ingredients about Split Pea Soup
To make this delightful split pea soup, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 cup split peas, rinsed
- 1 ham hock
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How to Make Split Pea Soup Directions
Making split pea soup is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Rinse the Split Peas: Start by rinsing the split peas under cold water to remove any dust or debris. After rinsing, set them aside as you move towards the next steps.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they are softened, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The garlic will become fragrant, adding a lovely aroma to your soup.
- Combine Ingredients: Next, add the rinsed split peas to the pot along with the ham hock, diced potatoes, and broth. Make sure the broth covers all the ingredients well.
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about one hour. This will give the peas ample time to cook through and break down, thickening the soup and enhancing its flavor.
- Prepare the Ham: After simmering, carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Use two forks to shred the meat from the bone.
- Return the Meat: Once the meat is shredded, return it to the pot, stirring it into the soup.
- Season to Taste: Before serving, taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Serve: Ladle the hot split pea soup into bowls, optionally pairing it with crusty bread and garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
Serving split pea soup is an enjoyable part of the experience. It’s a wonderful choice for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. When it comes to serving, here are some tips to elevate your presentation:
- Use Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme can add a burst of color and freshness to your soup. Consider using a herb for a garnish that complements the flavors in your soup.
- Pair with Bread: Split pea soup goes wonderfully with crusty bread or warm rolls. You can serve a side of bread for dipping, adding texture and satisfaction to each bite.
- Add a Dash of Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider offering crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce on the side. This allows each person to customize their bowl.
- Offer a Side Salad: For a complete meal, serve a fresh salad alongside the soup. A simple green salad can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the soup.
No matter how you choose to serve your split pea soup, it is sure to be a hit at the table, delighting taste buds and warming hearts.
Expert Tips: Split Pea Soup
To ensure your split pea soup turns out perfect every time, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Soak the Split Peas: If you have time, soak the split peas for a few hours or overnight. This can help reduce cooking time and improve texture, though it is not necessary.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding bay leaves during simmering or a touch of smoked paprika can provide additional depth to the flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more broth or water during the cooking process. For a thicker soup, allow it to simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Check for Freshness: Always check the expiration date on your split peas. Fresh peas cook better and create a smoother, richer flavor.
- Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup after cooking. This step adds creaminess without any dairy.
How to Store Split Pea Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your split pea soup is simple and straightforward:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the soup to cool at room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the containers.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store the soup in airtight containers for maximum freshness. You can also portion the soup into smaller containers for easy reheating.
- Refrigerate for Short Term: Split pea soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Make sure to label your containers with the date.
- Freezing for Long Term: If you want to store the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, and you’ll have a warm meal ready in no time.
Variation of Split Pea Soup
Feel free to get creative with your split pea soup by trying some of these variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for a delightful twist.
- Add More Spice: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an exciting kick.
- Herbed Delight: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a fresh flavor that complements the peas nicely.
- Asian Influence: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the recipe to give it an Asian flair. Top with green onions for added crunch.
- Creamy Finish: Incorporate coconut milk into the soup for a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness, setting it apart from traditional recipes.
Each of these variations allows you to customize the soup to your liking while still enjoying its comforting essence.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients in split pea soup?
The main ingredients in split pea soup include split peas, ham hock, potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and broth. These ingredients work together to create a flavorful and hearty dish.
How long does split pea soup take to cook?
Typically, split pea soup takes about one hour to simmer on the stove after preparing the ingredients. The split peas should be soft and fully cooked, resulting in a creamy consistency.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes, you can freeze split pea soup. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Be sure to store it in airtight containers and cool it down before freezing.
Is split pea soup healthy?
Absolutely! Split pea soup is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy meal option. The combination of vegetables and split peas provides a balanced dish that is both filling and nutritious.
How can I make split pea soup thicker?
To thicken split pea soup, allow it to simmer longer to let the peas break down more. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup to create a creamier texture while leaving some chunks for a heartier consistency.
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas, rinsed Dried green or yellow split peas are ideal.
- 1 piece ham hock Adds a savory depth to the soup.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced Adds heartiness to the soup.
- 1 piece onion, chopped Enhances flavor.
- 2 pieces carrots, chopped Adds sweetness and nutrition.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped Provides crunch.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth Use your preferred broth for flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aroma and flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to your preference.
- for sautéing tablespoons olive oil Use for cooking the vegetables.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Set them aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the rinsed split peas, ham hock, diced potatoes, and broth to the pot. Ensure the broth covers the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about one hour.
- Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat from the bone using two forks.
- Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir it into the soup.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.
- Ladle the hot split pea soup into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh herbs.
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