As a kid growing up, my mom cooked lentils, beans, and legumes all the time. We had it in curries, patties, or soups at least once a week. Back then, mom had these in the pantry, so there was always something to cook. These are not just delicious but also nutritious! The slow cooking process allows these nutrients to be released and absorbed more efficiently, resulting in a nourishing and satisfying meal. You enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value by simmering them with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices. Slow cooker split pea soup not only warms you up on a cold winter day, but it also provides a nourishing elixir of essential nutrients. The nutritional benefits of split peas make this soup not just a delicious and comforting dish, but also a wholesome addition to your diet.
Step-by-step: Slow cooker split pea soup
Split peas – Sort and wash the split peas. Drain and set aside.Pro tip – time permitting soak the split peas in warm water for 30 minutes to an hour. This softens the grains and makes a wonderfully creamy soup. Add all slow cooker ingredients into the slow cooker. Split peas, onion, garlic, celery, parsley, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Add the broth or stock – stir well making sure all the ingredients are distributed well. Cover the slow cooker and set to cook on low for 5 to 6 hours. When you open the slow cooker, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprig.Pro tip – I like an almost smooth and creamy consistency so I do 8 hours overnight Blend soup- For a wholesome texture use a potato masher to mash all the ingredients.- For a smooth soup use a hand blender (this is what I do). Combine the cornstarch and milk then add it to the soup. Combine well and continue to cook for 30 minutes on high.Pro tip – the cornstarch will prevent the milk from curdling in the soup. Finally, add the cheddar cheese – stir until well combined. Check and adjust seasoning. Serve garnished with more cheese or some whipped cream (optional).
Tips for Making Split Pea Soup:
Rinse your peas: Before adding the split peas to the slow cooker, it’s important to rinse them thoroughly. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may be present, ensuring a clean and delicious soup. Soak the peas (optional): While not necessary, soaking the split peas overnight can help soften them and reduce the cooking time. If you need more time, you can skip this step and still achieve great results. Add the right amount of liquid: Split peas absorb a lot of liquid as they cook, so adding enough water or broth is crucial. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 4 cups of fluid ratio for every 1 cup of split peas. You can constantly adjust the consistency later by adding more liquid if needed. Make sure to skimp on the aromatics: To enhance the flavor of your split pea soup, be generous with your aromatics. Onions, garlic, carrots, and celery are classic additions that add depth and richness to the soup. Consider sautéing them briefly before adding them to the slow cooker for even more flavor. Season to taste: Split pea soup can be quite hearty, but don’t forget to season it to your liking. Salt and pepper are a given, but you can also experiment with other herbs and spices like thyme, bay leaves, or smoked paprika for a twist
Instant Pot split pea soup or Stovetop split pea soup Chicken Pot Pie Soup Cream of Broccoli Soup Homemade Green Pea Soup Cream of Mushroom Soup All soup recipes
Frequently asked questions
Creative ways to make split pea soup
One option is to add some smoky goodness to your soup. Consider adding a few strips of bacon or smoked ham hock to the pot while your soup simmers. The smoky flavors will permeate the soup and provide an irresistible depth of flavor. Alternatively, you can try adding some smoked paprika or chipotle powder to achieve a similar effect without the meat. If you’re a fan of spice, consider incorporating some heat into your split pea soup. Adding a pinch or two of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño can kick your soup and contrast the creamy texture. Remember to taste and adjust the spice level to suit your preferences. You can also experiment with herbs and aromatic vegetables for a fresh twist. Adding a handful of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can brighten up the flavors and provide a fragrant aroma. Additionally, sautéing some onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the soup can create a delicious base for the dish. Another creative way to make split pea soup is to incorporate different vegetables or proteins. You can add chunks of cooked chicken, diced ham, or even leftover roast beef for a heartier soup. You can also experiment with vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or mushrooms to add depth and variety to the soup. By trying out these creative ways to make split pea soup, you can take this humble dish to new heights of flavor and enjoyment. So go ahead and have fun in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to create a split pea soup that is uniquely yours. Now that you have a few ideas to get started, let’s move on to answering some frequently asked questions about split pea soup.,
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