There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup, especially on those chilly days when you just want to curl up with something hearty. This soup is not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrition, boasting high fiber and protein content. I love how split peas transform into a creamy, satisfying dish that feels like a big hug from the inside. Plus, it’s vegan, making it a perfect option for those looking for healthy soup choices without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to for cozy nights in. So, let’s dive into the magic of making split pea soup!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups split peas, rinsed and drained
- 8 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium preferred
- 1 onion, diced finely for even cooking
- 2 carrots, diced into small pieces
- 2 celery stalks, diced to match the carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for flavor depth
- 1 bay leaf, for aromatic essence
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, or fresh if available
- Salt, to taste (start with about 1 teaspoon)
- Pepper, freshly cracked, to taste
How to Prepare Split Pea Soup
Rinsing and Preparing Ingredients
First things first, you’ll want to rinse those split peas under cold water. This step is crucial as it helps remove any dust or impurities that may have snuck into the bag. Trust me; it’s worth the few extra minutes. After rinsing, let them drain while you prep your veggies. When dicing the onion, carrots, and celery, aim for uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender throughout. I like to use a sharp knife for clean cuts; it makes all the difference when you’re trying to get that perfect sauté.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and start to smell amazing. This is where the magic begins! You want to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking or burning. Once the veggies are tender, add in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. The aroma will be irresistible!
Cooking the Soup
Next up, it’s time to bring everything together. Stir in the rinsed split peas, followed by the vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil – it might take a few minutes, but don’t rush it! Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where your soup develops rich flavors, so resist the urge to skip this step! If you find the soup getting too thick, just add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Blending and Serving
Finally, it’s blending time! You can choose to blend the soup for a silky smooth texture or leave it a bit chunky for some heartiness. I recommend using an immersion blender for ease, but a regular blender works too – just be careful with the hot liquid! Once blended to your liking, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you’ve got them on hand, and maybe a slice of crusty bread on the side. Trust me, this split pea soup is going to be your new favorite comfort food!
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your split pea soup, here are some pro tips that I’ve gathered over the years. First, consider adding a smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for a hint of depth and warmth. If you’re not keeping it vegan, diced ham or bacon adds a fantastic savory punch. You can also switch up the herbs; a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley at the end brings a bright contrast to the earthy flavors.
Don’t shy away from experimenting! Try adding a bay leaf or even a touch of cumin for a unique twist. If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. And remember, the soup thickens as it cools, so adjust with a bit more broth if you like it soupy! With a few tweaks, you’ll make this recipe your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a hearty bowl of split pea soup, you’ll be glad to know it’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrition! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values based on typical ingredients used in this recipe:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 13g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These values are an estimate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. But one thing’s for sure – you’ll be nourishing your body with every spoonful of this comforting soup!
FAQ Section
Can I add meat to split pea soup?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to enhance the flavor, adding diced ham or crispy bacon can take your split pea soup to the next level. The smokiness from the meat pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of the split peas. Just toss the meat in during the sautéing stage, and let it mingle with the vegetables. However, if you prefer a vegan soup, feel free to skip the meat and rely on the deep flavors of the herbs and vegetables. Trust me, it’s just as delicious and satisfying!
How long does split pea soup last in the fridge?
After making your delicious soup, you can store it in the fridge for about 5-7 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much upon sitting, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth or water to get it back to that lovely, soupy consistency!
Can I freeze split pea soup?
You bet! Freezing split pea soup is a great way to have a hearty meal ready for those busy days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so adding a bit more broth upon reheating can help restore its creamy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This split pea soup is a satisfying meal that warms you up from the inside out.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein and fiber, it’s a fantastic choice for a healthy diet.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze for later.
- Versatile Flair: Customize it with your favorite herbs and spices for a unique twist every time.
Split Pea Soup: Mastering Hearty Comfort in One Bowl
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and nutritious split pea soup, perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups split peas
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until peas are tender.
- Remove bay leaf and blend the soup for a smooth texture, or leave it chunky if preferred.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or diced ham.
- This soup can be frozen for up to three months.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 13g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: split pea soup, vegan soup, healthy soup
