Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy soup? Then look no further! This creamy split pea soup recipe takes inspiration from the queen of effortless elegance herself, Ina Garten. It's a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can also be quick dinner ideas, ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch. Forget complicated recipes; this homemade cooking masterpiece is surprisingly simple and delivers a big, satisfying taste. Get ready to experience a truly delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a wonderful base of flavor for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the rinsed split peas, chicken broth (or vegetable broth), thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the split peas are very tender and have broken down slightly, creating a creamy texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the creamier the soup will become.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender (be cautious when blending hot liquids!).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. This easy recipe is perfect served with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup:
- Soaking (Optional): Soaking the split peas for a few hours or overnight can reduce cooking time. However, it's not strictly necessary.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: Ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the ingredients comfortably; overcrowding can hinder the cooking process.
- Flavor Boosters: Experiment with adding other vegetables like diced potatoes or leeks for added depth of flavor. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the taste beautifully.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if you prefer a spicier soup.
Variations:
- Ham Bone Soup: For a richer, more savory flavor, add a smoked ham bone or ham hock during the simmering process. Remove the bone before blending and shred some of the ham to add back into the soup as a garnish.
- Coconut Milk Soup: For a creamy and subtly sweet variation, stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 10g
This hearty and healthy soup is a fantastic source of fiber and protein, making it a perfect addition to any healthy meal plan. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make split pea soup recipe! Remember to share your culinary creations with us! We love seeing your homemade cooking masterpieces!