Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound dried split peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large soup pot
- Immersion blender (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas in a colander and set aside.
2. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes and sauté for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender.
7. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard.
8. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
9. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Simmer on low heat
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 13g
Sodium: 900mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
- You can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
- You can add diced ham or bacon for a meatier soup.
Variations:
- Add a can of diced tomatoes for a tomato-based split pea soup.
- Add a cup of cooked rice for a heartier soup.
- Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Soak the split peas overnight to reduce cooking time.
- Use an immersion blender for a smoother soup.
- Add more broth if the soup is too thick.
Storage instructions:
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in a bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
- Croutons
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Crispy bacon bits
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
Food safety advice:
- Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat the soup to 165°F before serving.
Food history:
Split pea soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, including Scandinavian, Dutch, and American cuisine. It is often served as a hearty winter soup.
Flavor profiles:
- Earthy
- Savory
- Creamy
Serving suggestions:
Serve the soup as a main course for lunch or dinner.
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Taste: Savory, Earthy, Comforting, Hearty