There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a bowl of pea soup. It’s creamy, flavorful, and nostalgic—a timeless comfort food that has graced tables for generations. This Perfect Pea Soup is not only simple to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and soul. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re simply craving something cozy and filling, this recipe has you covered.
What makes this soup truly special is how easily it comes together with pantry staples like dried split peas, carrots, and potatoes. Add a touch of seasoning and the magic of simmering, and you’ve got a bowl of pure comfort in no time. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to mastering this classic dish.
Why You’ll Love Perfect Pea Soup
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make and requires minimal cleanup.
- Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning, add extra vegetables, or blend it to your desired consistency.
- Meal Prep Champion: Freezes and reheats beautifully for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.
Ingredients for Perfect Pea Soup
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Oils & Aromatics | Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 | |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 large | |
| Spices | Dried oregano | ½ teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 | |
| Sea salt | 1 teaspoon | |
| Ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon | |
| Vegetables | Carrots, diced | 2 cups |
| Red or white potatoes, chopped (unpeeled) | 2 cups | |
| Legumes | Dried split green peas, rinsed | 1 pound |
| Liquids | Low-sodium vegetable broth | 8 cups |
| Seasoning Adjustments | Additional salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the dried oregano.
- Add the bay leaf, sea salt, and ground black pepper.
- Stir well to release the spices’ aroma, ensuring they coat the onions and garlic evenly.
3. Add Vegetables and Peas
- Toss in the diced carrots, chopped potatoes, and rinsed split green peas.
- Stir to coat the vegetables and peas in the seasoned oil and onion mixture.
4. Pour in the Broth
- Add the vegetable broth to the pot, ensuring the vegetables and peas are fully submerged.
- Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Check for Tenderness
- When the split peas are soft and beginning to break down, and the vegetables are fork-tender, the soup is ready.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
7. Blend (Optional)
- For a creamy consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot.
- Alternatively, transfer portions of the soup to a countertop blender and blend until smooth.
- For a chunkier soup, skip the blending step entirely.
8. Adjust the Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it warm.
- Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Pea Soup
This soup is not just a comforting dish—it’s also a nutritional powerhouse packed with essential nutrients:
| Ingredient | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Split Green Peas | High in plant-based protein, fiber, and iron, promoting digestion and muscle health. |
| Carrots | Rich in beta-carotene, supporting healthy skin and vision. |
| Potatoes | Provide potassium and energy-boosting carbohydrates. |
| Garlic and Onion | Known for their antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. |
| Olive Oil | Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. |
Tips for Perfect Pea Soup
1. Rinse the Split Peas Thoroughly
Always rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. This ensures a clean, earthy flavor in your soup.
2. Add the Salt Gradually
Adding too much salt too early can prevent the peas from softening. Adjust the seasoning at the end for the perfect balance.
3. Experiment with Blending
- For a creamier texture, blend all or part of the soup.
- If you prefer a rustic texture, leave the soup chunky.
4. Use Fresh Vegetables
Fresh carrots and potatoes enhance the flavor and texture of the soup. Avoid canned or frozen vegetables for this recipe.
5. Store and Reheat Easily
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Why Split Peas Are a Nutritional Powerhouse
Split peas are the star of this recipe, and for good reason. They’re a budget-friendly ingredient that’s rich in plant-based protein and fiber. These legumes also provide essential vitamins like folate and minerals like potassium and magnesium, making them a perfect addition to a balanced diet.
What’s more, their natural creaminess when cooked makes them ideal for hearty soups like this one. Combined with vegetables and spices, split peas create a dish that’s as delicious as it is nourishing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes! Yellow split peas work just as well and have a slightly milder flavor.
2. Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?
No, soaking is not necessary for this recipe. Split peas cook quickly and soften beautifully during the simmering process.
3. Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely. Diced ham, cooked bacon, or shredded chicken make excellent additions for a heartier version.
4. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is naturally vegan when made with vegetable broth and olive oil.
5. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper while sautéing the onions and garlic for an extra kick.
6. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Conclusion: The Perfect Comfort Food
This Perfect Pea Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a timeless classic that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. With its creamy texture, wholesome ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
So why wait? Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the simple joy of homemade pea soup. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!
Pro Tip: Serve this soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a side of warm, crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal. Enjoy!
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Perfect Pea Soup: A Comforting Classic Made Easy
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Warm, creamy, and loaded with comforting flavors, this Perfect Pea Soup is the ultimate bowl of coziness. Made with hearty split peas, fresh vegetables, and simple seasonings, this classic recipe comes together effortlessly in one pot. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re looking for a wholesome meal-prep idea, this soup is guaranteed to nourish your body and soul. Serve it with crusty bread for the perfect pairing!
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 2 large cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups carrots (diced)
- 2 cups red or white potatoes (unpeeled and chopped)
- 1 pound dried split green peas (rinsed)
- 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- Additional salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the spices: Sprinkle in the oregano, then add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to release the spices’ aroma.
- Add vegetables and peas: Toss in the carrots, potatoes, and rinsed split peas. Stir to coat everything in the seasoned oil and onions.
- Pour in the broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
- Cook until tender: Cover the pot and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and the vegetables are tender. Remove the bay leaf.
- Blend (optional): For a creamy consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer portions of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. For a chunkier texture, skip this step.
- Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Feel free to use yellow split peas instead of green for a slightly milder flavor.
- For added richness, swirl in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
- This soup freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat on the stovetop for an easy meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American