Nourishing Split Pea Soup

why make this recipe

Nourishing Split Pea Soup is more than just a warm bowl of comfort. It’s hearty, filling, and makes for a satisfying meal any time of the year. This soup is packed with nutrients, making it not only delicious but also exceptionally good for your health. The base of green split peas provides protein and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. Plus, the combination of vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery ensures you get your daily vitamins.

This recipe is perfect for those looking for an affordable, simple meal. It’s budget-friendly and can easily be made in a large batch, making it great for families or meal prep. When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing like a steaming bowl of split pea soup to warm you from the inside out. And if you have leftovers, they just get better with time, allowing the flavors to deepen.

The fact that this recipe incorporates a ham bone means you get a rich, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste. If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting dishes, then this Nourishing Split Pea Soup is one to keep in your recipe collection. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

how to make Nourishing Split Pea Soup

Making Nourishing Split Pea Soup is straightforward and requires minimal effort. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a delightful dish. Follow the steps below to make your own nourishing soup.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Onion, finely diced
• 1 cup Carrot, finely diced
• 1 cup Celery, finely diced
• 8 cups Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
• 1.5 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/8 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• 1.5 cups Green Split Peas, rinsed
• 2 small or 1 large Bay Leaves
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 1 Ham Bone, meaty
• Fresh Thyme (optional)
• Hearty Buttered Bread for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by finely dicing the onions, carrots, and celery. This step is essential as these vegetables form the base of your soup, and cutting them into small pieces helps them cook evenly.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them until they turn translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the carrots and celery, cooking until they soften. This enhances the flavors of your soup.

3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for about a minute, or until you can smell the aroma of the spices. This step adds depth to the soup.

4. Combine Main Ingredients: Pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth, then add the rinsed split peas and bay leaves. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The broth serves as the soup base and ensures the peas cook properly.

5. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Add the Ham Bone: After an hour, add the meaty ham bone to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes. The bone will add a rich flavor to the soup, enhancing its heartiness.

7. Check Consistency: Once the cooking time is complete, check the soup’s consistency. If you’d prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup until smooth. If you like it chunkier, you can skip this step.

8. Season and Serve: Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh thyme (if desired), and serve it with hearty buttered bread for a complete meal.

how to serve Nourishing Split Pea Soup

Serving Nourishing Split Pea Soup is as easy as making it. Here’s how you can enjoy this healthy dish:

1. Choose Your Bowls: Opt for deep soup bowls or rustic bowl options to hold the warm soup.

2. Garnish: Finish the soup by garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or even croutons for added texture.

3. Side Pairings: Serve with slices of hearty buttered bread or rolls. The bread is perfect for dipping and will complement the soup’s flavor.

4. Extra Add-ons: If you enjoy some heat, consider serving it with a side of hot sauce or red pepper flakes, allowing everyone to customize their bowl.

5. Make it a Meal: This soup is filling on its own, but you could also serve it with a light salad or fruit to complete your meal.

how to store Nourishing Split Pea Soup

If you’ve made a big batch of Nourishing Split Pea Soup, you’ll want to know how to store it properly to enjoy later.

1. Cool Off: Allow the soup to cool at room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This will prevent it from steaming in the container, which can lead to sogginess.

2. Store in Airtight Containers: Use clean, airtight containers for storage. You can also use freezer-safe bags if you plan to freeze the soup.

3. Refrigeration: If you plan on eating the leftovers within the next few days, simply store the soup in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days.

4. Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, split your soup into smaller portions and then freeze. It can comfortably stay in the freezer for 3 to 6 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

tips to make Nourishing Split Pea Soup

1. Don’t Skip Rinsing: Always rinse your split peas before cooking. This removes any debris and helps in getting a cleaner flavor.

2. Use Quality Broth: A good broth enhances the flavor significantly. If you use homemade broth, it will make the soup even tastier.

3. Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs over dried ones. They tend to add more flavor and brightness to the soup.

4. Blend for Creaminess: If you like your soup creamy, don’t hesitate to blend a portion or even all of it. An immersion blender works perfectly for this.

5. Customize Your Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste. Add more cumin for depth or some salt-free seasoning blends for a healthier option.

6. Don’t Worry About Ham: If you don’t have a ham bone, you can still make this soup. Use diced ham or even turkey for a lighter option.

variation

While the Nourishing Split Pea Soup recipe is fantastic as is, you can switch it up with various variations to keep it fresh and exciting:

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and leave out the ham bone. You can still achieve a rich flavor by adding smoked paprika.

2. Add Greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds both color and extra nutrients to your soup.

3. Spicy Version: For those who love spice, add diced jalapeños or a bit of cayenne pepper along with your spices.

4. Coconut Flair: Add in a can of coconut milk along with chicken broth for a creamy, tropical twist.

5. Scoped-out Potatoes: Toss in diced potatoes for a heartier soup. Just remember that potatoes may require additional cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?

Yes, you can use yellow split peas instead of green. The cooking time will remain the same, but the flavor may differ slightly—yellow peas may have a slightly sweeter taste.

How can I thicken my split pea soup?

If your soup is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by partly blending it with an immersion blender or letting it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a potato, which will break down and contribute to thickness.

Does split pea soup freeze well?

Yes, split pea soup freezes exceptionally well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw in the fridge when you plan to eat it again.

How do I know when split peas are done cooking?

Split peas are done cooking when they are tender and have lost their shape. They should be soft and creamy when stirred; if they are still firm or crunchy, they’ll need more cooking time.

Can I cook split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply follow the recipe directions, but place all the ingredients in a slow cooker instead. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peas are soft.

With these comprehensive directions and tips, you’re all set to create a delightful pot of Nourishing Split Pea Soup. Indulge in the flavors, warmth, and health benefits of this comforting dish. Enjoy!

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