Description
Classic Split Pea Soup is a comforting and hearty vegetarian dish featuring tender green split peas simmered with aromatic vegetables and herbs. This nutritious soup offers a creamy or chunky texture option, perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Ingredients
- 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly translucent.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Split Peas and Broth: Add the rinsed green split peas and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Soup: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
- Blend Soup (Optional): Remove and discard the bay leaf. For a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup; alternatively, leave it chunky for a heartier texture.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth, if not vegetarian.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
