Split Pea Soup

Warm up this winter with a comforting bowl of Split Pea Soup! This hearty and nutritious dish is a perfect choice for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried split peas
• 1 ham hock
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a large pot, combine split peas, ham hock, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and broth.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, or until peas are tender.
• Remove ham hock, shred meat, and return to soup.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 11g

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham hock?

A: Yes, you can substitute ham hock with smoked turkey legs or bacon for a different flavor.

• Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can cook this soup on low in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours until the split peas are tender.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers and freezing for up to 3 months.

Helpful tips:

• Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
• To make the soup thicker, use an immersion blender to partially blend the mixture.

Expert Secrets:

• For extra depth of flavor, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery before adding to the pot.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• To enhance the taste, finish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of vinegar before serving.