If you’re in the mood for something hearty, nutritious, and absolutely comforting, look no further than Bob’s Red Mill Split Pea Soup Recipe. This recipe brings together simplicity and depth of flavor in one bowl, all while being incredibly easy to make. Split pea soup is a classic dish that has been loved for generations due to its ability to pack a punch of nutrition without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or enjoy a meal that will keep you full and satisfied for hours, this soup is a great choice.
Bob’s Red Mill is a brand known for its quality whole grains and legumes, and their split pea soup recipe is no exception. It’s rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and full of vegetables that are as nourishing as they are tasty. The earthy flavor of the split peas, combined with aromatic herbs and vegetables, makes this dish a go-to for anyone craving a nutritious yet fulfilling meal.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe and explore everything you need to know about making this delightful dish, step by step!
Bob’s Red Mill Split Pea Soup Recipe
This soup recipe from Bob’s Red Mill is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something both filling and delicious. The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike. The best part? It’s versatile and forgiving, so you can adjust it to your tastes and dietary preferences.
Here’s How You Can Make Your Own Batch Of Comforting Split Pea Soup
Ingredients Needed
Before you start, make sure you’ve got everything on hand. Here’s the full list of ingredients for Bob’s Red Mill Split Pea Soup Recipe:
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1 Cup Dried Split Peas
These are the main ingredient, offering a mild, earthy flavor and lots of protein and fiber.
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1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
For sautéing the veggies and creating a flavor base. Feel free to use vegetable oil if you prefer.
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1 Onion, Diced
A medium onion will provide sweetness and depth to the soup base.
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2 Carrots, Peeled And Diced
Carrots add a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to your soup.
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2 Celery Stalks, Diced
Celery offers a fresh, slightly bitter flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
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3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
Garlic gives the soup a wonderful savory note that complements the other ingredients.
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6 Cups Vegetable Broth (or Chicken Broth For Non-vegetarians)
The broth is the liquid that pulls all the flavors together, so choose a good quality one.
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1 Bay Leaf
Bay leaves add a subtle herbaceous note to the soup, making it more aromatic.
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1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme
Thyme is one of those herbs that pairs beautifully with peas and vegetables, lending a nice herbal fragrance.
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Salt And Pepper To Taste
These seasonings will enhance the flavors of the soup. Start with a pinch and adjust as you go.
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1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice (optional)
A splash of lemon juice at the end will brighten up the soup and add a little zest.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients lined up, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of split pea soup in no time:
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Prepare The Split Peas
- Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris. No need to soak them, as they cook relatively quickly.
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Sauté The Veggies
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onion turns translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
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Simmer The Soup
- Add the split peas to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Stir everything together, making sure the peas are submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure the peas don’t stick to the bottom.
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Finish The Soup
- Once the peas are soft and the soup has reached your desired consistency, taste it for seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf, and for an extra layer of flavor, squeeze in some lemon juice to brighten the soup.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Ingredient Insights
To make this soup shine, it’s important to understand the role of each ingredient:
- Split Peas: These little legumes are packed with fiber and protein, making them an excellent choice for a filling, plant-based meal. They have a subtle, slightly nutty flavor that absorbs the seasonings of the soup wonderfully.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery are the classic trio that forms the base of many soups and stews. They provide both flavor and texture, and their natural sweetness balances the earthy flavor of the peas.
- Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs are powerhouses when it comes to adding depth to soups. Bay leaves contribute a complex, slightly floral note, while thyme’s earthy, pine-like flavor enhances the savory elements of the soup.
- Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup’s flavor. A rich, well-seasoned vegetable broth will complement the split peas and vegetables. If you’re not vegetarian, using chicken broth will add a deeper, more savory base.
Expert Tips
- For Creamier Soup: If you like your split pea soup on the creamier side, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup once the peas have softened. This will give it a smooth, velvety texture. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot.
- Adding More Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in some extra vegetables like potatoes or parsnips. They’ll only enhance the flavor and texture of the soup without overpowering the peas.
- Salt Adjustments: Since the broth can vary in saltiness, be sure to taste the soup before adding extra salt. It’s always best to add it slowly to avoid over-seasoning.
- Make Ahead: Split pea soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Recipe Variations
While Bob’s Red Mill Split Pea Soup Recipe is fantastic as it is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
- Ham Lovers: If you’re a fan of the traditional ham and split pea combo, add some diced cooked ham or a ham hock while simmering the soup. The ham will infuse the broth with smoky, savory flavor.
- Vegan Option: The base recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it fully vegan by ensuring you’re using vegetable broth and skipping any dairy sides like sour cream or cheese.
- Herb Variations: Switch up the thyme with rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can also be added at the end for an added burst of freshness.
Final Words
Bob’s Red Mill Split Pea Soup Recipe is a timeless classic. It’s the kind of meal that nourishes both your body and soul. Full of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it’s the perfect dish for anyone looking for something healthy, hearty, and satisfying.