Hearty and Satisfying Split Pea Soup Recipes: A Comfort Food Classic

Gather ’round, cuz we’re about to dive into the wonderful, cozy world of split pea soup. Now, don’t turn up yer noses just yet split pea soup is like a warm hug on a cold day. Its the kind of meal that fills ya up and keeps ya going. So grab a spoon and let’s get cookin’!

What’s So Special ‘Bout Split Pea Soup?

First things first, let’s talk ’bout why split pea soup is such a gem. It’s hearty, it’s healthy, and its got that stick-to-your-ribs quality that just screams comfort food. Plus, it’s super versatile you can go ham (literally) with it or keep it veggie-friendly.

The Basics: Split Peas 101

Split peas are just regular peas that have been dried and split in half (hence the name). They’re packed with protein, fiber, and all sorts of good stuff. Plus, they cook down into a creamy texture thats perfect for soup.

• Protein-packed
• High in fiber
• Great source of iron

Now, heres a lil’ tip: always rinse yer split peas before cookin’. It helps get rid of any dust or debris, and makes sure yer soups as clean as a whistle.

Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham

This is the OG split pea soup rich, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. Its like grandmas hug in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 ham hock (or a couple of ham bones)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 cups chicken broth (or water)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine split peas, ham hock, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until peas are tender.
3. Remove the ham hock and let it cool. Once cool, shred the meat and return it to the pot.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, with some crusty bread on the side (perfect for soppin’ up that delicious broth).

Pro Tip: If you want your soup extra smooth, use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency. But honestly, I love a bit of chunkiness gives it character!

Vegetarian Split Pea Soup

For all you veggie lovers out there, this one’s for you. Its just as hearty and satisfying, without the meat.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in split peas, bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, and broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until peas are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if youre feelin’ fancy.

This version is so gooood, you won’t even miss the meat. Plus, that smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor thatll make you wanna keep comin’ back for more.

Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Potatoes

Now were talkin’. This variation adds crispy bacon and potatoes for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried split peas, rinsed
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery to the bacon fat. Cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in split peas, bay leaf, thyme, broth, and potatoes.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until peas and potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stir in crispy bacon just before serving.
8. Enjoy hot, with a sprinkle of cheese on top if you’re feelin’ indulgent.

Potatoes and bacon just make everything better, don’t they? This version is perfect for when you want something a lil’ extra special.

Spicy Split Pea Soup with Sausage

Feelin’ a bit adventurous? Try this spicy version with sausage. Its got a kick that’ll warm ya right up! ?

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 lb spicy sausage (like chorizo or andouille), sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in split peas, bay leaf, thyme, red pepper flakes, and broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until peas are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stir in sausage just before serving.
8. Enjoy hot, with a splash of hot sauce if you’re feelin’ brave.

This soups got some serious attitude! Its perfect for those cold nights when you need somethin’ to warm ya from the inside out.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Split Pea Soup

Before we wrap things up, here are a few tips to make sure your split pea soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Soak your peas: While its not strictly necessary, soaking split peas overnight can help them cook more evenly and reduce cooking time.
• Watch the salt: If youre using a salty broth or adding ham/bacon, wait until the end to season with salt. Otherwise, you might end up with a soup that’s too salty.
• Use a slow cooker: Split pea soup is perfect for the slow cooker. Just throw everything in and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort

So there ya have it, folks a few variations of split pea soup that’ll warm your heart and fill your belly. Whether you’re a meat lover, a vegetarian, or someone who loves a bit of spice, there’s a split pea soup recipe here for you. So why not give it a try? Grab a big ol’ pot, some split peas, and get cookin’. And dont forget to share your creations with me Id love to hear how they turn out!

Got a favorite split pea soup recipe or a secret ingredient you swear by? Drop a comment below and lets swap stories. Happy cooking, y’all!

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