Description
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
1 lb dried green split peas (rinsed)
1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth or water
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions
Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
In a large pot, combine split peas, ham bone or diced ham, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Remove the ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaf.
Blend the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother consistency, or leave it chunky, depending on your preference.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect split pea soup every time. First, ensure your split peas are rinsed to remove any dust. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. This builds a flavorful base. Next, add the rinsed split peas, ham bone, broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce the heat to the lowest simmer. Cover and cook for 90 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent sticking. The soup is ready when the peas have completely broken down.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a meal on its own, but perfect pairings elevate it. Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm dinner rolls for dipping. For a fresh contrast, add a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese makes a rich topping. For a complete comfort food experience, pair it with a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
How-to Summary
Rinse peas. Sauté vegetables. Combine all ingredients (except salt/pepper) in a pot. Boil, then simmer covered for 1.5-2 hours. Remove ham bone and bay leaf. Shred meat, return to pot. Blend if desired. Season and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup without a ham bone?
Yes. Use 2 cups of diced ham added with the broth. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham, use vegetable broth, and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.
Why is my soup too thick?
Split peas absorb liquid. Simply thin it by stirring in additional broth or water until your desired consistency is reached.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Sauté veggies first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth as it will thicken when chilled.
Is it necessary to soak the split peas?
No. Unlike other dried legumes, split peas do not require pre-soaking and will cook to tenderness within the recipe’s timeframe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding salt too early: Wait until the end to season. Ham and broth can be salty, and reducing the soup concentrates flavors.
- Boiling too vigorously: A rapid boil can cause the peas to stick and burn. Maintain a gentle, steady simmer.
- Not stirring occasionally: Stirring every 30 minutes prevents the peas from settling and sticking to the pot bottom.
- Using old split peas: Very old dried peas take much longer to break down. If your soup isn’t thickening, the peas may be past their prime.
Conclusion
This classic split pea soup is the epitome of comforting, nutritious, and economical home cooking. With its simple ingredients and forgiving nature, it’s a perfect recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks. By following this enhanced guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize the soup to your taste. It’s a timeless dish that yields delicious results and even better leftovers, making it a staple recipe for any home cook’s collection.