There is nothing more comforting in winter or on a rainy day than a bowl of thick warm soup. Especially, if it is nutritious, wholesome, and healthy. My father-in-law makes a wonderful split pea soup our kids enjoy very much. So, while they do not otherwise like lentils, beans, or legumes they do enjoy this soup.
Step-by-step: Instant pot 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. Instant Pot – Turn the instant pot on saute. Pressure cooker – place the pressure cooker on medium heat.
Add the olive oil and sauté the garlic, ginger, and bay leaves for 30 seconds. Then add the celery and onions and sauté until the onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper. Add the chopped parsley and drained split peas followed by 5 cups of broth or stock – stir well.
Pressure cook
Instant Pot – Turn the saute off. Close and lock the instant pot lid. Close the seal and set the instant pot on high for 25 minutes Stovetop pressure cooker – close the pressure cooker, add the whistle, and pressure cook for 25 to 30 mins.
Natual release – When done turn off and let natural release for 10 minutes. Open the instant pot or pressure cooker.Pro tip – it is best to use natural release otherwise the spray of the soup in the quick release can clog the instant pot valve which is difficult to clean. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Using a hand blender, blend the soup to a smooth consistency.Pro tip – don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before blending because it does not blend well into the soup. And, the flavor of these is very strong.
Add cornstarch to the milk and combine well before adding it to the soup. Let come to an almost boil.Pro tip – The cornstarch will help thicken the soup but it will also prevent the milk from curdling in the soup. Finally, add the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve garnished with more parmesan cheese.Pro tip – if you don’t like parmesan you can add another of your favorite cheese.
Frequently asked questions
Creative ways to serve 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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