Split pea soup is a classic comfort food, often associated with a ham bone for extra richness. But this recipe proves you can achieve incredible depth of flavor without relying on meat. This vegetarian split pea soup is hearty, satisfying, and bursting with deliciousness, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal. We'll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the perfect creamy texture.
What Makes This Split Pea Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe focuses on building layers of flavor using readily available vegetables and spices. We bypass the ham bone entirely, instead utilizing vegetable broth, aromatic vegetables like carrots and celery, and a blend of herbs and spices to achieve a rich and savory broth. The result is a soup that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful, appealing to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. We'll also address common questions regarding this delicious dish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried bay leaf (remove before serving)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Split Pea Soup Perfection
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Peas and Broth: Stir in the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender and easily mashed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Blend for Creamy Texture (Optional): For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender and puree before returning to the pot. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of split peas?
While green split peas are traditional, you can experiment with yellow or red split peas. Keep in mind that yellow split peas tend to cook faster, while red split peas have a slightly different flavor profile and often result in a thicker soup.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it for a longer period to allow the peas to break down further. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How do I store leftover split pea soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Adding a diced potato or some diced turnips during the simmering process can also enhance the flavor and texture.
This recipe offers a delicious and fulfilling vegetarian alternative to traditional ham-based split pea soup. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors and the satisfaction of creating a hearty and healthy meal from scratch!
