Pea Soup Recipe
Pea soup is an enduring and robust classic, prepared from dried split peas and frequently featuring vegetables, with the occasional addition of ham for an extra depth of flavor. It is a beloved comfort food, known for its simplicity in preparation and its ability to serve as a comforting and satisfying meal, making it a staple in numerous households. Presented below is a recipe for this well-regarded pea soup.
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 300kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound about 2 cups dried green or yellow split peas
- 1 ham hock or 1/2 pound of ham diced (for added flavor, optional)
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2-3 carrots peeled and diced
- 2-3 celery stalks diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 cups of water or low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water and drain them.
- In a large soup pot, heat a bit of olive oil or melt some butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they begin to soften, usually for about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute or so until fragrant.
- Stir in the dried split peas and mix them with the vegetables.
- Pour in the water or broth and add the ham hock (if using), bay leaf, and thyme. Season with a bit of salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. If using a ham hock, remove it when the meat is tender and shred the meat. Return the shredded meat to the soup.
- Continue simmering until the peas have softened and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. You can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or croutons.
Notes
Feel free to customize your pea soup by adding additional vegetables like potatoes or spinach. This recipe is a great base, and you can adjust it to suit your preferences. Enjoy your homemade pea soup!