Why Split Pea Soup?
Split pea soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for chilly fall and winter days. Not only is it warm and hearty, but it is also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and an hour or so of simmering on the stove, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to satisfy.
Split peas are a great source of protein and fiber, which makes this soup a healthy choice that will keep you feeling full and satisfied for hours. Plus, it is naturally gluten-free and vegan, so it is a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 pound dried split peas
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the carrots and celery and cook until slightly tender.
- Add the split peas, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the peas are soft.
- Remove the bay leaf and blend the soup until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with croutons and parsley on top.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
- Vegan: This recipe is already vegan, but you can add some plant-based protein by topping it with roasted chickpeas or tofu croutons.
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the label of your vegetable broth to make sure it is gluten-free as well.
- Smoky: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to give your soup a smoky flavor.
- Ham: Add some chopped ham or bacon to your soup for a meaty twist.
- Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Split pea soup is a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for chilly fall and winter days. With just a few simple ingredients and an hour or so of simmering on the stove, you can have a warm and hearty soup that is sure to satisfy. Plus, with so many variations, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try and see why split pea soup is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style.
FAQ
Can I use whole peas instead of split peas?
No, whole peas will not work for this recipe. Split peas have been processed to split the outer layer of the peas, which allows them to cook faster and creates the desired texture for the soup.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Start by sautéing the vegetables and ham in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label and date the containers, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian. You may need to adjust the seasoning to taste.
How can I make this soup thicker?
To make the soup thicker, you can either use more split peas or let the soup simmer for longer to allow the peas to break down further. You can also use an immersion blender to blend some of the peas and vegetables into the soup.
Can I use a ham hock instead of diced ham?
Yes, you can use a ham hock instead of diced ham. Add the ham hock to the soup along with the split peas and water, then remove it before blending the soup.
Can I use bacon instead of ham?
Yes, you can use bacon instead of ham to add flavor to the soup. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove it and sauté the vegetables in the bacon grease before adding the remaining ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to the soup such as carrots, celery, or potatoes. Chop them into small pieces and sauté them along with the onion and garlic before adding the remaining ingredients.
How long will this soup keep in the refrigerator?
This soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I use an Instant Pot to make this soup?
Yes, you can use an Instant Pot to make this soup. Sauté the vegetables and ham using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure and serving.
