Cozy Up for National Split Pea Soup Day with Good Thyme Gal!
Happy National Split Pea Soup Day (November 13,2024)! 🍲 There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade split pea soup to warm you up and satisfy your soul. With its hearty, creamy texture and nourishing flavors, split pea soup has long been a favorite comfort food. Traditionally made with simple ingredients and a rich, savory flavor, this soup brings both comfort and nostalgia in every spoonful. So today, let’s celebrate this underrated classic by diving into a bit of its history and sharing an easy, tasty recipe you can make at home!
Why We Love Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is beloved around the world, with roots dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times. Made from dried peas that are split to cook quickly and thicken naturally, the soup gained popularity in Europe and North America as an affordable, protein-packed meal. Often associated with French-Canadian and Dutch cuisines, split pea soup became especially popular in the United States, where the addition of ham hocks or bacon added extra richness and depth of flavor.
Not only is split pea soup a warming comfort food, but it’s also a nutrition powerhouse. Split peas are high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins like folate, potassium, and B vitamins. They’re naturally low in fat and can keep you feeling full and satisfied—perfect for chilly autumn days.
Chef's Tips for the Perfect Split Pea Soup
Before we dive into the recipe, here are a few tips to help you make the most delicious split pea soup:
1. Rinse the Peas Well: Give your split peas a good rinse to remove any dust or small debris.
2. Low and Slow Cooking: The longer split pea soup simmers, the creamier and more flavorful it becomes. Slow cooking allows the peas to fully break down, creating a naturally thick and smooth texture.
3. Add Smoky Flavor:Traditionally, ham hocks or smoked bacon are added for a rich, smoky flavor. However, if you’re vegetarian, you can achieve a similar depth with a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Good Thyme Gal’s Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
This split pea soup recipe is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make! It’s perfect for a cozy evening in, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of delicious comfort!
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
1 smoked ham hock or 4 oz diced smoked bacon (optional, for added richness)
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the rinsed split peas, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). If you’re using a ham hock, add it to the pot now. This will infuse the soup with a rich, smoky flavor as it cooks.
3. Pour in the broth, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the peas have softened and the soup has thickened to your liking.
4. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock (if using). Shred any meat from the ham hock and stir it back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Ladle the split pea soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side. Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!
Variations on Classic Split Pea Soup On national Split pea Soup Day
While this recipe follows a classic approach, there are plenty of ways to customize split pea soup to your liking:
Add Potatoes: For extra heartiness, add cubed potatoes along with the carrots and celery.
Go Vegetarian or Vegan: Simply omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
Herb It Up: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra aromatic touch.
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