Split pea soup

Split Pea Soup

This classic, comforting soup is hearty and perfect for colder days. It’s made with dried split peas and a ham hock, creating a creamy, smoky, and flavorful soup that’s satisfying and simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
  • 1 ham hock (or 1-2 cups diced ham)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse and sort through the split peas, removing any debris. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Broth and Ham Hock: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the ham hock (or diced ham) and bay leaf.
  4. Add Split Peas: Stir in the split peas.
  5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 1-2 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup thickens. Stir occasionally.
  6. Adjust Seasoning: Remove the ham hock, shred any meat left on the bone, and add it back to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Top 20 Popular Questions and Answers:

  1. Q: Can I make split pea soup without a ham hock?
    • A: Yes! Substitute with smoked sausage, diced ham, or add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
  2. Q: How can I make it vegetarian?
    • A: Use vegetable broth and omit the ham hock. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for depth.
  3. Q: Can I use green or yellow split peas?
    • A: Absolutely! Green and yellow split peas have similar flavors and textures, so use whichever you prefer.
  4. Q: Does split pea soup freeze well?
    • A: Yes, it freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
  5. Q: How can I make it thicker?
    • A: Cook it longer, uncovered, or add a few extra peas for a thicker texture.
  6. Q: How do I thin the soup if it’s too thick?
    • A: Add additional broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  7. Q: Can I use canned peas?
    • A: Dried peas are best for split pea soup, but if using canned peas, reduce cooking time significantly.
  8. Q: What kind of ham works best if I don’t have a ham hock?
    • A: Diced smoked ham or leftover holiday ham works well and adds flavor.
  9. Q: How can I add more flavor?
    • A: Add fresh thyme, bay leaves, or smoked paprika. Sauté the vegetables well to build flavor.
  10. Q: How long should I soak the peas?
    • A: Split peas don’t need soaking, but rinsing helps remove any dust or debris.
  11. Q: Why is my soup taking so long to cook?
    • A: Older peas can take longer to soften, so buy fresh if possible. Cooking at a low simmer also lengthens the process.
  12. Q: Is split pea soup gluten-free?
    • A: Yes, as long as your broth is gluten-free, split pea soup is naturally gluten-free.
  13. Q: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
    • A: Yes! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  14. Q: Can I add potatoes?
    • A: Absolutely. Diced potatoes can be added for extra heartiness.
  15. Q: Can I use water instead of broth?
    • A: Yes, but broth adds more flavor. If using water, season more generously.
  16. Q: What goes well with split pea soup?
    • A: Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple salad are great sides.
  17. Q: Can I use an immersion blender?
    • A: Yes, for a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
  18. Q: Is split pea soup healthy?
    • A: Yes, it’s packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients from the vegetables.
  19. Q: How long does split pea soup keep in the fridge?
    • A: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  20. Q: Can I add other vegetables?
    • A: Definitely! Add diced potatoes, turnips, or even chopped spinach or kale for more texture.

30 Tips to Make Split Pea Soup Even More Delightful:

  1. Use fresh split peas for better flavor and quicker cooking.
  2. Rinse the peas thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
  3. Simmer low and slow to develop the flavors fully.
  4. Add smoked ham or bacon for a richer, smokier taste if you don’t have a ham hock.
  5. Include a bay leaf to add subtle herbal notes to the soup.
  6. Sauté the vegetables to deepen the flavors before adding liquid.
  7. Use high-quality broth or stock for the best flavor.
  8. Add garlic for a layer of aromatic flavor.
  9. Include diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
  10. Cook uncovered for part of the cooking time to reduce and thicken.
  11. Season toward the end to avoid over-salting.
  12. Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.
  13. Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh flavor boost.
  14. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
  15. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh finish.
  16. Use leftover holiday ham for added flavor and texture.
  17. Add a pinch of smoked paprika to intensify the smoky flavor.
  18. Try adding a touch of cream at the end for extra richness.
  19. Cook in a Dutch oven to help retain and distribute heat evenly.
  20. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice.
  21. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the soup.
  22. Add a splash of sherry or white wine to deglaze after sautéing vegetables.
  23. Use a slow cooker for an easy, hands-off approach.
  24. Opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version with deep flavor.
  25. Garnish with crispy croutons or bacon bits for texture.
  26. Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a unique depth of flavor.
  27. Top with shredded cheese for added richness.
  28. Sprinkle in a little nutmeg for warmth and depth.
  29. Try a blend of green and yellow split peas for a unique color and taste.
  30. Add a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce for a savory umami boost.

Secrets to Achieving the Perfect Split Pea Soup

1. Use Quality Split Peas

  • Always use fresh, high-quality dried split peas. Older peas might take longer to cook and may not soften properly.

2. Rinse and Sort the Peas

  • Rinse and sort through the split peas to remove any small rocks or debris, as well as broken pieces.

3. Soak the Split Peas

  • While not necessary, soaking split peas for a few hours can reduce cooking time and improve the soup’s texture.

4. Choose the Right Ham Hock

  • A smoked ham hock adds depth and a smoky flavor. If you prefer, use diced ham for a meaty texture.

5. Use a Mirepoix Base

  • Start with a mirepoix (onion, celery, and carrots) to build flavor. Dice these small for even cooking.

6. Sauté Vegetables First

  • Sauté onions, celery, and carrots in a bit of oil or butter before adding other ingredients. This brings out the sweetness and enhances flavor.

7. Add Garlic for Depth

  • Add minced garlic when sautéing vegetables for extra depth of flavor.

8. Balance Smokiness

  • If the soup tastes overly smoky, balance it with additional carrots or a touch of brown sugar.

9. Add Bay Leaves

  • Adding a bay leaf or two provides a subtle herbal note that complements split peas well.

10. Use Fresh Herbs

  • Fresh thyme or parsley added towards the end enhances flavor without overpowering the soup.

11. Use a Low-Sodium Broth

  • Using low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth allows you to control the saltiness better.

12. Add a Pinch of Baking Soda (Optional)

  • A small pinch of baking soda can help the peas break down faster, resulting in a creamier soup.

13. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot

  • Using too many ingredients can make the soup too thick. If needed, thin with additional broth or water.

14. Cook Slowly for Full Flavor

  • Slow-cooking the soup on low allows flavors to meld and develop fully.

15. Use a Ham Bone for Richness

  • If you don’t have a ham hock, a ham bone also adds rich flavor and can be simmered in the soup for extra heartiness.

16. Add Potatoes for Thickness

  • Adding a diced potato can naturally thicken the soup and enhance its texture.

17. Season Gradually

  • Split pea soup flavors develop over time, so wait to adjust seasoning until the end.

18. Stir Occasionally to Prevent Sticking

  • Split peas tend to settle at the bottom, so stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

19. Simmer on Low Heat

  • Avoid boiling vigorously. A low simmer ensures the peas soften gently, preventing a mushy texture.

20. Don’t Add Salt Until the End

  • Salt can toughen the peas if added too early. Wait until they are fully tender before seasoning.

21. Check for Bone and Fat

  • Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and discard any bones or fatty bits before serving.

22. Puree for Creaminess

  • For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup.

23. Add a Splash of Vinegar for Brightness

  • A small splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice before serving adds brightness and balances flavors.

24. Add Fresh Herbs at the End

  • Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving for a burst of flavor.

25. Use Dairy for Extra Creaminess (Optional)

  • Add a touch of cream or milk at the end for a rich, creamy consistency.

26. Use a Smoky Sausage for Extra Flavor

  • Add sliced smoked sausage for an extra meaty flavor, making it a more filling meal.

27. Season with Black Pepper

  • Freshly ground black pepper enhances the smoky and earthy notes of the soup.

28. Serve with Crusty Bread

  • A side of crusty bread or toasted baguette is perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy soup.

29. Store for Later

  • Split pea soup flavors improve overnight. Store leftovers in the fridge for a more developed taste the next day.

30. Freeze in Portions

  • This soup freezes well. Portion into containers, and freeze for an easy meal later.

With these tips, your split pea soup will be flavorful, creamy, and perfectly balanced every time! Enjoy!

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