Pea soup is a hearty and comforting soup that is perfect for cold weather or for a satisfying meal at any time of year. The soup is made with dried split peas, vegetables, and seasonings, and can be served as a main course or as a side dish.
Here are some tips and variations to consider when making Pea Soup:
Add other vegetables: While carrots and celery are traditional additions to Pea Soup, you can also add other vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnips, or butternut squash to give the soup some extra flavor and texture.
Use broth for added flavor: For a more flavorful soup, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
Use a slow cooker: Pea Soup can be made in a slow cooker for an easy and hands-off cooking experience. Just combine all of the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Blend the soup for a smoother texture: For a creamier and smoother soup, blend the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender until it reaches your desired texture.
Use different spices: While bay leaves and thyme are classic spices for Pea Soup, you can experiment with other spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, or coriander for a different flavor profile.
Add protein: For a more substantial soup, add cooked diced ham or crumbled bacon, or serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
Make it vegetarian or vegan: Use vegetable broth and omit the ham or bacon for a vegetarian or vegan version of Pea Soup.
Add dairy: For a creamier soup, add a splash of cream or milk to the soup, or serve it with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche.
Enjoy your delicious and versatile Pea Soup!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried split peas
- 6 cups water or chicken/vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked ham or bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
Rinse the dried split peas and pick out any debris or stones.
Heat the olive oil in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook until the onions are softened, about 5 twinkles. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and continue to sauté for another
Add the split peas, water or broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir sometimes to keep the haze from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Remove and discard the bay leaves from the haze
Optional: For added flavor, stir in some diced cooked ham or crumbled bacon.
Serve the Pea Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or croutons if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and hearty Pea Soup!