There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup, don’t you think? On chilly days, when the wind howls outside, I love curling up with a steaming mug of this hearty goodness. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. I remember the first time I made it—my kitchen filled with the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic, and I couldn’t help but smile knowing a delicious meal was just moments away. Each spoonful is like a hug from the inside out! Trust me, once you try this simple recipe, it’ll become your go-to comfort food too. Let’s dive into the magic of split pea soup together!
Ingredients List
To make this cozy split pea soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup split peas, rinsed under cold water
- 1 onion, chopped into small pieces
- 2 carrots, diced into bite-sized cubes
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better!)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought works great)
- 1 bay leaf (this adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- Salt to taste (start with a pinch and adjust later)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is my favorite!)
These simple ingredients combine to create a hearty and satisfying soup that’s not just delicious but also good for you! Ready to get cooking? Let’s move on to the preparation!
How to Prepare Split Pea Soup
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the simple steps to prepare this comforting split pea soup. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each part. You’ve got this!
Step 1: Rinse the Split Peas
First things first, you’ll want to rinse the split peas under cold water. Just toss them into a fine-mesh strainer and give them a good rinse. This helps remove any dirt or impurities, making sure your soup is as clean as can be. Give them a little shake to get rid of excess water, and they’re ready to go!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. This step is super important because it builds the foundation of flavor for your soup. You want those onions to become translucent and the carrots to brighten up a bit. Trust me, the aroma will have you dreaming of cozy nights in!
Step 3: Add Garlic
Next up, it’s garlic time! Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This is where the magic happens! Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor that makes your soup sing. Just be careful not to let it burn—stir it frequently, and soon you’ll be greeted with that irresistible garlicky scent!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Stir in those rinsed split peas along with the vegetable broth. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is well combined. This is where the soup really starts to take shape. You’ll see those lovely peas mingling with the veggies, and it’s going to be delicious!
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Next, add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this is where you build flavor! Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen and the split peas to soften beautifully. Just keep an eye on it, and give it a stir every now and then.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once your soup is beautifully thick and fragrant, it’s time for the final touches. Carefully remove the bay leaf (it’s not meant to be eaten) and taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or pepper? Then, it’s ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the warmth and comfort of your homemade split pea soup!
Tips for Success
To ensure your split pea soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Check for Doneness: After simmering for about 45 minutes, the split peas should be tender and have mostly broken down. If they still seem a bit firm, don’t worry! Just let them simmer a little longer, checking every 5 minutes until they reach that creamy texture.
- Adjusting Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes, after everything has simmered together, it may need a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper. Start small—you can always add more, but it’s tough to fix if it’s too salty!
- For a Creamier Soup: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring some to a regular blender. Just be cautious with hot liquids! Blending gives the soup a richer mouthfeel while still keeping some texture from the whole peas.
- Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: The bay leaf may seem like a small addition, but it truly enhances the overall flavor. Just remember to take it out before serving, as it can be tough and isn’t meant to be eaten.
- Leftover Magic: This soup gets even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together. So, don’t hesitate to make a big batch and enjoy it over a couple of days!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a delicious batch of split pea soup that warms the soul. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the deliciousness of split pea soup, let’s talk about the nutritional side. Keep in mind that the exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. However, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
This split pea soup is not only hearty and filling but also packed with nutrients! It’s a wonderful choice for a healthy meal. Enjoy every nourishing spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This split pea soup comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need something comforting in a hurry.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s a soup that fills you up without weighing you down—perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs!
- Healthy: Low in calories and high in fiber and protein, this soup is a great choice for a nutritious meal that keeps you energized.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge and even gets better the next day, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking or meal prep!
With all these fantastic benefits, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious split pea soup, you might be wondering how to store the leftovers. Don’t worry, it’s super simple! Let’s keep that hearty goodness fresh for your next meal.
First, let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can make your soup watery. You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days—just make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made!
If you want to keep your soup for longer, you can freeze it! Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Leave a little space at the top of the container or bag, as the soup will expand when frozen. It should keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
For reheating, simply pour your soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave—just be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely to avoid splatters. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll never have to waste a drop of that comforting split pea soup!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up a delicious pot of split pea soup, let’s talk about what pairs perfectly with it! I love to keep things simple and satisfying when it comes to accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is the ultimate partner for split pea soup. Whether it’s a baguette, sourdough, or even a simple rustic bread, you’ll want to tear off pieces to soak up every last drop of that savory broth.
- Simple Salad: A light, fresh salad adds a nice contrast to the hearty soup. Try a mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette, or toss together some crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes for a refreshing side.
- Grilled Cheese: For a cozy twist, pair your soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The melted cheese and crispy bread complement the soup’s creamy texture beautifully. Trust me, it’s a match made in comfort food heaven!
- Pickles or Olives: A small dish of tangy pickles or olives on the side can add a nice briny kick that balances the soup’s flavors. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare and always a hit!
- Herb Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of your soup before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also brightens the flavors beautifully.
With these tasty accompaniments, your split pea soup experience will be a delightful and satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this split pea soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just follow the same steps for rinsing and sautéing the vegetables, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peas are tender. It’s an easy soup recipe that works wonderfully in a slow cooker!
Q2: Is split pea soup a healthy option?
Yes, it really is! This split pea soup is low in calories and high in protein and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy soup. It’s packed with nutrients from the vegetables and the split peas themselves. Plus, it’s vegan, so it fits into various dietary preferences! Learn more about the nutritional benefits of split peas.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your split pea soup by adding other veggies like spinach, kale, or potatoes. Just chop them up and toss them in along with the split peas and broth. It’s a great way to sneak in more nutrients and make your soup even heartier!
Q4: How do I store leftover split pea soup?
Storing leftover soup is super simple! Let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date so you know when it was made!
Q5: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, split pea soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make a batch ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave!
Split Pea Soup: 6 Steps to Comforting Goodness
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A warm and hearty split pea soup that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water.
- In a large pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the split peas and vegetable broth.
- Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- For a creamier soup, blend a portion of it after cooking.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze portions for a quick meal later.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: split pea soup, healthy soup, easy soup recipe
