Ah, Split Pea Soup – the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul on a chilly day. I’ll never forget the first time I tried my grandma’s famous recipe. The aroma of simmering vegetables and fragrant herbs would fill the entire house, and the rich, creamy texture was like a big hug in a bowl.
As I grew older, that comforting bowl of pea soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I experimented with different techniques and flavor combinations, but nothing quite compared to the classic version my grandma had perfected over the years. It wasn’t just the recipe itself that made her soup so special – it was the love and care she poured into every step of the process.
Nowadays, I’m known amongst my friends and family as the resident Split Pea Soup expert. Whenever someone’s feeling under the weather or just needs a little something to warm them up, they know to come to me for a steaming bowl of this nourishing and delicious soup. And let me tell you, this recipe is about to become your new go-to as well.
Why This Split Pea Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Split Pea Soup
What sets this Split Pea Soup recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the slow simmering process, which allows the peas to break down and create a velvety, creamy base. But we’re not just talking about a basic, one-note soup here. Oh no, we’re talking about a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
The aromatic blend of onions, carrots, celery, and garlic creates a robust foundation, while the fragrant thyme and cumin add depth and complexity. And let’s not forget the star of the show – the humble split pea. These little legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and a wealth of nutrients that make this soup not just delicious, but incredibly nourishing as well.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up a batch of this irresistible Split Pea Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This is the foundation that will sauté the aromatics and build the flavor base.
- 1 onion, diced – The onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced – Carrots lend a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – Celery provides a subtle, earthy flavor and a pleasant crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must-have for any good soup, infusing the dish with its pungent aroma and flavor.
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed – The heart of the soup, split peas lend a creamy, velvety texture and a boost of plant-based protein.
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth – The liquid that will transform the ingredients into a hearty, satisfying soup.
- 1 bay leaf – This aromatic herb adds depth and complexity to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme complements the split peas beautifully, lending an earthy, slightly minty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin – Cumin adds a warm, slightly smoky note that ties the whole dish together.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – These simple seasonings will enhance all the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Split Pea Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Split Pea Soup
Alright, let’s get started on this delectable Split Pea Soup! With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 45 minutes, you’ll have a comforting and satisfying meal ready in just 60 minutes. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a sharp knife.
1- In the large pot, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and starting to caramelize.
2- Next, add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.
3- Toss in the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, until the aroma of the garlic becomes fragrant.
4- Now, it’s time to add the star of the show – the split peas. Pour in the 1 pound of rinsed split peas and the 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and ground cumin, and stir to combine.
5- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
6- Finally, remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the steaming Split Pea Soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or a swirl of yogurt, if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Split Pea Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Soak the split peas overnight or for at least 6 hours before cooking. This helps them break down more quickly and results in a creamier texture.
- Don’t skimp on the aromatics – the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic are the foundation of the soup’s flavor.
- Simmer the soup gently and resist the urge to stir it too much, as this can break down the peas too much and result in a grainy texture.
- For an extra-creamy soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before serving. This will create a luscious, velvety texture.
Serving and Storing Your Split Pea Soup
Perfect Pairings for Split Pea Soup
This Split Pea Soup recipe serves 6 generous portions, making it the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh, crisp salad or a crusty loaf of bread. The earthy, comforting flavors of the soup also pair beautifully with a glass of dry white wine or a robust red.
If you’re looking to make it a heartier meal, try topping the soup with crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken. For a vegetarian-friendly option, sprinkle on some shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Split Pea Soup is that it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat. Simply allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer-term storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
This Split Pea Soup also makes a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish in advance, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy it. Just remember to give it a good stir and reheat it gently before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Split Pea Soup
Creative Split Pea Soup Variations
While the classic version of this Split Pea Soup is truly hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and try new flavor combinations. For a twist on the traditional, try adding a diced ham hock or smoked sausage to the pot for a heartier, more savory soup.
For a seasonal take, swap out the thyme for fresh rosemary or oregano in the summer, or add a splash of apple cider and a sprinkle of cinnamon in the fall. You could also experiment with different spices, like curry powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder, to create a more global-inspired soup.
Making Split Pea Soup Diet-Friendly
This Split Pea Soup recipe is already quite healthy, thanks to the high-protein, high-fiber split peas and the abundance of nutrient-dense vegetables. However, there are a few easy substitutions you can make to adapt it for specific dietary needs.
For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free broth. To make it vegan, swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit any dairy-based toppings. And for a low-carb spin, you can reduce the amount of split peas and replace them with cauliflower florets or diced zucchini.
No matter which dietary path you choose, this Split Pea Soup will still be a nourishing and delicious option that’s sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pea instead of split peas?
A: While you can technically use other types of peas, such as green or yellow peas, the recipe is specifically designed for split peas, which have a unique texture and flavor profile that works best for this soup.
Q: How long does it take to cook the Split Pea Soup?
A: As mentioned in the recipe, the total time for this Split Pea Soup is 60 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! This Split Pea Soup freezes beautifully. Simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Split Pea Soup recipe yields 6 generous servings, making it the perfect meal for a family or a group of friends.
Q: My soup is coming out too thick or too thin – what can I do?
A: If your soup is too thick, simply add a bit more broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a little longer to allow the peas to break down and thicken the soup.
Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 60
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Split Pea Soup is a comforting, protein-packed meal that’s easy to make at home. Packed with tender split peas, savory vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is the ultimate cozy dish for a chilly day.
Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the split peas, broth, bay leaf, thyme, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are very soft and the soup has thickened.
6. Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Split Pea Soup hot, garnished with croutons, a swirl of sour cream or yogurt, and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup. You can also add diced ham or smoked sausage for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Soups, Stews & Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There you have it – the ultimate Split Pea Soup recipe that’s sure to become a new staple in your kitchen. With its comforting flavors, nourishing ingredients, and easy-to-follow instructions, this soup is the perfect meal to enjoy on a chilly day or to share with loved ones.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the same joy and satisfaction that I do every time I make a batch. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the rich, creamy goodness of this Split Pea Soup. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below!
