Here’s a comforting recipe for Pea Soup, a classic dish that's hearty, nutritious, and easy to prepare. This version uses split peas, which are full of flavor and protein.
Classic Pea Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried split peas (green or yellow)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 carrots, diced
- 2-3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- Optional garnishes: croutons, fresh herbs (like parsley), or a drizzle of olive oil
Instructions:
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Rinse the Peas:
- Rinse the dried split peas under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
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Add Ingredients:
- Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth (or water), bay leaf, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, or until the split peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove the bay leaf before blending.
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Blend the Soup:
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer portions to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
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Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed.
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Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with croutons, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- Add Protein: For extra protein, consider adding diced ham or cooked bacon to the soup while it simmers.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions for a vegetarian or vegan version.
- Store Leftovers: The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat before serving.
This Pea Soup is not only comforting but also a nutritious option that's packed with flavor! Enjoy your warm bowl of soup!
