Every time I make this Split Pea Soup, it reminds me of cozy afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. I can still hear her laughter mixing with the bubbling sounds of the soup simmering on the stove. As the aroma filled the air, we would sit around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying her delicious meals. It’s funny how food has a way of connecting us to our fondest memories, isn’t it? If you’ve never had the joy of making Split Pea Soup, you’re in for a treat! This warm and hearty dish will not only fill your stomach but also wrap you in a comforting embrace that feels just like home. I promise that once you taste this lovely soup, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in my heart.
How to make Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Split peas | 1 cup |
| Onion, chopped | 1 large |
| Carrots, diced | 2 medium |
| Celery, diced | 2 stalks |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Vegetable broth or water | 4 cups |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Thyme | 1 tsp (dried or fresh) |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Olive oil or butter | 1 tbsp |
| Optional: diced ham or bacon | 1 cup |
Now that we have our ingredients gathered, let me tell you a little about why these ingredients are important. Split peas are the star of the show; they lend that delightful creamy texture and rich flavor! Onions, carrots, and celery form the aromatic base, creating a beautiful flavor combination. I often suggest adding a bit of fresh thyme or rosemary if you have some on hand—be prepared for your kitchen to smell heavenly!
Cooking Steps
1. Rinse the Split Peas
First, begin by rinsing your split peas under cold water. This step is often overlooked, but it ensures you’re removing any dirt or debris that might have lingered.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat your choice of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery, and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes. I love this part because the smell of the veggies cooking together fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation!
3. Add the Garlic
Once your aromatic vegetables are softened, add the ** minced garlic** and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on the garlic, as it can burn quickly and give off a bitter taste.
4. Incorporate the Split Peas
Now, it’s time to add the rinsed split peas to the pot. Mix everything well, feeling that aroma wrap around you like a warm blanket.
5. Pour in the Liquid
Next, add the vegetable broth (or water if you prefer). It’s essential to cover the peas completely—this is what will help them cook down and become that lovely textured soup!
6. Add the Herbs
Throw in the bay leaf and thyme to add depth to your soup. These herbs will infuse their flavors, creating layers of taste that you’ll absolutely adore.
7. Bring to a Boil
Bring your soup to a boil. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
8. Simmer the Soup
Let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to keep an eye on it—this is where the magic happens! The split peas will soften and become creamy, mingling deliciously with the vegetables.
9. Taste and Season
After about 30 minutes, taste your soup! This is your chance to sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Feel free to add more thyme or even a dash of cayenne if you like a little heat.
10. Optional Ham or Bacon
If you’re adding diced ham or smoky bacon, now is the time! Stir it in and let it heat through for another 5 minutes.
11. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
If you prefer a creamy texture, now is the time to use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup but be careful not to overdo it; I like to blend about half of it to keep some chunky bits!
12. Enjoy!
Remove the bay leaf and serve hot! Pair it with some crusty bread for a meal that’s utterly comforting.
Why I Love Making This Dish
What truly makes this dish special to me is the warmth it brings to my family. Making Split Pea Soup often means that I have family gathered around my kitchen table, sharing stories and laughter. Each bowl served holds memories of my grandmother’s love and the wisdom of generations. It’s not just about the soup; it’s about the connection and love that fills the room when I bring this comforting dish to life.
What You’ll Need
You won’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe, just a good pot and your love! A sturdy cutting board and a knife for chopping your veggies will do just fine. An immersion blender is helpful if you like your soup creamier, but it’s not necessary!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by rinsing the split peas.
- Sauté your aromatic vegetables: onion, carrots, and celery.
- Add the garlic and cook just until fragrant.
- Stir in the split peas.
- Pour in the vegetable broth (or water).
- Toss in the bay leaf and thyme.
- Bring it all to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Stir in optional diced ham or bacon.
- Blend partially if a creamier texture is desired.
- Serve hot!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Rinse those split peas, and don’t skip that step! It makes a world of difference.
- For a heartier flavor, use homemade broth if you have the time. If not, store-bought works just fine!
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like potatoes or even kale. They add their own unique flavor and nutrition.
- Keep tasting as you go. This way, you’ll be sure to get the seasoning just right!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
I always find that a good crusty bread or buttered biscuits goes wonderfully with this soup. If I’m feeling fancy, I might whip up a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of a salad pairs beautifully with the hearty soup, providing the perfect balance.
Leftovers
If you find you have leftovers (and that’s a big “if” around my house!), just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, just pop it in a pot over low heat or use the microwave until warmed through. I find that the flavors deepen even more after a day or two, so it’s often even tastier!
FAQ Section
Can I use split peas that have been sitting in my pantry for a while? Absolutely! Just give them a good rinse and check for any stones or debris.
Is it okay to freeze the leftovers? Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to leave a little room in the container since it will expand. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Can I make this soup vegetarian? Definitely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken or add some extra mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
What can I do if I don’t have thyme? If you don’t have thyme, feel free to substitute with dried oregano or even Italian seasoning. Each will give a lovely flavor.
Conclusion
This Split Pea Soup has truly become one of my go-to recipes. The simplicity, flavor, and warmth it brings to my kitchen make meal times feel special. I encourage you to give it a try and let your home fill with the wonderful aromas that come from this delightful dish. I can’t wait for you to experience the love that goes into every bowl. Let me know how it turns out for you, and be prepared for your family to ask for seconds—just like mine do every time!