Nourishing Split Pea Soup for Cozy Nights at Home

Why Make This Recipe

As the cooler months approach, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. The Nourishing Split Pea Soup is an excellent choice for cozy nights at home. This soup is not only hearty and satisfying, but it is also packed with nutrition. Made from split peas, vegetables, and flavorful spices, the soup offers a delightful combination of taste and texture. It is simple to make, relatively quick, and perfect to enjoy on a chilly evening or to serve to guests.

Split peas are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are high in protein and fiber, making this soup a filling meal that can keep you satisfied for hours. Additionally, split peas are low in fat and rich in vitamins and minerals. This means that you can enjoy a hearty bowl without any guilt. Adding vegetables enhances the nutrients in this dish and provides a variety of flavors that complement the split peas beautifully.

This soup is adaptable and can easily accommodate what you have on hand. Whether you want to make it vegetarian by omitting the ham bone or spice it up with red pepper flakes, the customized flavors make each bowl unique. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover ham or vegetables that may be lingering in your fridge. With the right ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a nourishing meal that warms both the body and the soul.

How to Make Nourishing Split Pea Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cups Onion, finely diced (Shallots can be used for a milder taste.)
• 1 cup Carrot, finely diced (Parsnips work well as a substitute.)
• 1 cup Celery, finely diced (Omit for a simpler flavor.)
• 8 cups Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth (Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (Substitute avocado or vegetable oil if desired.)
• 1 tbsp Garlic, minced (Garlic powder can be a substitute.)
• 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning (Mix your favorite dried herbs if you’re out.)
• 1.5 tsp Ground Cumin (Feel free to omit for milder flavor.)
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme (Fresh thyme is a good alternative.)
• 1/8 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust for spice preference.)
• 1.5 cups Green Split Peas, rinsed (Yellow split peas can also be used.)
• 2 small or 1 large Bay Leaves (Substitute with other herbs if unavailable.)
• Salt and Pepper (Adjust to taste; use low-sodium if needed.)
• 1 Ham Bone, meaty (Use smoked paprika for a vegetarian option.)
• Fresh Thyme (optional) (Omit if not available.)
• Hearty Buttered Bread (Serve with crusty bread or crunchy croutons.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Finely dice the onions, carrots, and celery. If you’re substituting any ingredients, ensure they are prepared in similar sizes for even cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warmed, add the diced onions. Sauté them until they are translucent and soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then add the diced carrots and celery. Cook these vegetables, stirring occasionally, for an additional 5 minutes until they start to soften. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground cumin, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook these spices with the vegetables for about 1 minute until they are fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Add Broth and Peas
Pour in the chicken broth. If you are making this a vegetarian soup, now is the time to use vegetable broth. Next, add the rinsed green split peas and bay leaves to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 5: Cook the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The split peas will start to break down and thicken the soup.

Step 6: Add the Ham Bone
After the soup has simmered for about an hour, it’s time to add the ham bone. This will infuse the soup with rich flavor. If you are using smoked paprika instead, add that now. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Check Consistency and Season
After about 1.5 hours of cooking, check the consistency of the soup. If you prefer it thicker, you can blend a portion with an immersion blender or leave it chunky for a more rustic style. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the ham will contribute some saltiness, so taste before adding too much.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with fresh thyme if you have it. Serve with hearty buttered bread or crunchy croutons for dipping. Cozy up and enjoy the rich flavors of the Nourishing Split Pea Soup on a chilly night.

How to Serve Nourishing Split Pea Soup

Nourishing Split Pea Soup is best served warm, making it perfect for cozy evenings. When serving, ladle the soup into only slightly warmed bowls to keep the soup hot for longer. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the presentation, giving it a brighter look.

Pair the soup with hearty buttered bread or crunchy croutons. The combination offers a delightful contrast in textures — the soft soup with crispy bread or croutons is satisfying and delicious. For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can complement the soup and add a refreshing element to your meal.

This split pea soup is a fantastic dish for batch cooking. You can make a large pot and savor the leftovers throughout the week. It reheats well, and the flavors tend to deepen as it sits in the fridge.

How to Store Nourishing Split Pea Soup

If you have leftover Nourishing Split Pea Soup, storing it is simple. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to airtight containers. You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

If you want to keep the soup longer, consider freezing it. Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. Properly stored, the soup can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Nourishing Split Pea Soup

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute significantly to the flavor. Always prefer fresh over canned or frozen if possible.

2. Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to add more spices according to your taste preferences. Different herbs or spices can completely change the flavor profile of the soup.

3. Check Consistency Early: Split peas can absorb a lot of liquid. If you like your soup thinner, keep extra broth or water on hand to adjust the thickness.

4. Use Leftover Ham or Bones: If you don’t have a ham bone, leftover cooked ham works great too. You can also make a vegetarian version and skip the meat altogether.

5. Store Properly: As mentioned earlier, store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness. If you’re freezing, use portions that make sense for your future meals.

Variation

While the classic recipe for Nourishing Split Pea Soup is delightful as is, you can make several variations to keep things exciting.

• Vegetarian Option: Simply omit the ham bone and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Enhance the umami flavor by adding a few tablespoons of soy sauce or nutritional yeast.

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the soup.

• Creamy Texture: For a creamier version, stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.

• Extra Vegetables: Add in some diced potatoes or green beans for added nutrition and texture. These can be added at the same time as the split peas.

• Herbs and Spices: You can rotate different herbs, like cilantro or basil, instead of Italian seasoning, based on what you enjoy or have on hand.

FAQs

How long does it take to make split pea soup?

Generally, it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to make split pea soup, including prep and cooking time. Most of this time is spent simmering the soup, allowing the flavors to develop.

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green split peas?

Yes! Yellow split peas can be used as a substitute for green split peas. The cooking time and overall process remain the same, but the color and taste will differ slightly.

Is split pea soup gluten-free?

Yes, split pea soup is naturally gluten-free, as the main ingredients are split peas and vegetables. Always check any broth or seasoning mixes to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I make split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make split pea soup in a slow cooker, follow the same steps for sautéing the vegetables, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the peas are tender.

Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes, split pea soup freezes well. Make sure the soup has cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of broth or water to adjust the consistency.

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to making a comforting bowl of Nourishing Split Pea Soup. Enjoy the warmth, flavor, and health benefits packed into each spoonful!

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