Dollar Store Dinners – Pea Soup
Cozy Up with a Bowl of Classic Split Pea Soup
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day? Today, we’re sharing our family’s favorite recipe for Split Pea Soup – a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dish that’s perfect for dinner, lunch, or a cozy weekend meal. This isn’t your average split pea soup; the bacon adds a smoky depth, while the simple blend of herbs and seasonings lets the natural sweetness of the peas shine through.
This recipe yields a generous 6 servings, making it ideal for feeding a family or having leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal – the flavors actually meld and improve overnight!
What Makes This Split Pea Soup Special?
- Smoky Bacon Flavor: We start by frying bacon, leaving that delicious rendered fat in the pot to build the base of our soup. It’s a game-changer!
- Simple & Flavorful: We keep the seasoning simple, allowing the natural flavor of the split peas and herbs to really come through.
- Creamy Texture: A partial blend with an immersion blender creates a lovely creamy texture while still leaving some whole peas for a satisfying bite.
- Budget-Friendly: Split peas are an incredibly affordable ingredient, making this a great option for a hearty and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup:
- Soaking the Peas (Optional): While not necessary, soaking the split peas for a few hours (or overnight) can reduce the cooking time. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon: Seriously, the bacon makes all the difference! If you’re vegetarian, you can omit it and use a tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil instead.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less chicken broth. For a thinner soup, add more.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ham hock instead of bacon?
A: Absolutely! A ham hock will add a wonderful smoky flavor to the soup. Just add it to the pot with the chicken broth and remove it before blending.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté the bacon and onions as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, split pea soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What kind of split peas should I use?
A: We recommend green split peas for this recipe, but you can also use yellow split peas. They will have a slightly different flavor and texture.
We hope you enjoy this classic Split Pea Soup as much as we do! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Split Pea Soup
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1.5 cups dried split peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Fry the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Add the olive oil to the pot. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried split peas, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the split peas are tender.
- Remove from heat and partially blend the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender (in batches) for a creamier texture. Leave some peas whole for texture.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle over the soup before serving.
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