Split pea soup is a timeless classic that combines simplicity with elegance. This dish captivates the senses through its velvety texture and rich, earthy flavors. With fresh herbs and select spices, this refined version elevates a humble ingredient into an extraordinary culinary experience. Prepare to indulge in the comforting warmth of split pea soup, perfect for both casual gatherings and refined gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: An achievable dish that presents beautifully.
- Minimal Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples without sacrificing sophistication.
- Impressive Flavor: A perfect balance of savory and subtle sweetness, with fragrant undertones.
This recipe transcends ordinary versions by offering a depth of flavor achieved through a careful selection of herbs and a touch of culinary finesse.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Broth
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock (preferably homemade)
- 1 bay leaf
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or room temperature butter for richness)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Split Pea Soup
- Prepare the Base: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Incorporate the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Build the Flavor: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes, ensuring the vegetables soften but remain vibrant in color.
- Add the Split Peas: Pour in the rinsed split peas, followed by the vegetable stock and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle in the dried thyme and add salt and black pepper to taste. Cover the pot, allowing it to simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- Blend for Creaminess: Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency—smooth or with some texture. If it’s too thick, adjust with additional stock.
- Final Touch: Allow the soup to adjust flavors on low heat for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
How to Serve Split Pea Soup
For an elegant presentation, ladle the soup into white or pale-colored bowls to highlight the vibrant green hue. Drizzle a touch of high-quality olive oil on top for a glistening effect, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with artisanal bread on the side for a touch of sophistication.
How to Store Split Pea Soup
To maintain both texture and flavor, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to reclaim its creaminess.
Tips to Make Split Pea Soup
- Soak Overnight: For a quicker cook time, consider soaking the split peas overnight to ensure tenderness.
- Add Depth: Incorporate smoked ham hock or bacon for a delightful smoky flavor that complements the earthiness of the peas.
- Flavor Enhancements: A splash of sherry or white wine during cooking can add a nuanced layer of sophistication.
- Texture Variations: Experiment by adding diced potatoes or parsnips for additional texture and natural sweetness.
Variation
- Herb Infusion: Substitute thyme with fresh rosemary or tarragon for an aromatic twist.
- Garnish Elegance: Top with a dollop of crème fraîche for a luxurious finish, or consider croutons made from gourmet bread for an inviting crunch.
FAQs
Can I make split pea soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable stock and omit any meat-based ingredients for a wholesome vegetarian version.
How thick should split pea soup be?
The thickness can vary based on personal preference. Aim for a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon, adjusting with broth as needed.
Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers and enjoy within three months.
Conclusion
This refined split pea soup showcases elegance in simplicity, marrying humble ingredients with sophisticated techniques. Its warm, inviting nature makes it suitable for both intimate dinners and festive gatherings. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments; we welcome your insights! How would you make this dish your own?
Print
Refined Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A timeless classic featuring a velvety texture and rich, earthy flavors, perfect for both casual and refined gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock (preferably homemade)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or room temperature butter for richness)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Incorporate the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes, ensuring the vegetables soften but remain vibrant in color.
- Pour in the rinsed split peas, followed by the vegetable stock and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme and add salt and black pepper to taste. Cover the pot, allowing it to simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency—smooth or with some texture. If it’s too thick, adjust with additional stock.
- Allow the soup to adjust flavors on low heat for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Notes
For an elegant presentation, serve in pale-colored bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh parsley. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg