Title: Hearty Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Cheddar
Time Details:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes
– Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Introduction
Warm up your evenings with a comforting bowl of split pea soup! It is creamy, rich, and packed with flavors from savory bacon and a hint of cheddar. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.
Why Make This Soup
This split pea soup is a spin-off of the regular one, made interesting with bacon and cheddar cheese. The soup is filled with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it not only delicious but healthy too.
How to Make Hearty Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Cheddar
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon, but leave the drippings in the pot.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes or until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Add split peas, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the peas are tender, use a blender to puree the soup up to your desired consistency.
6. Stir in cooked bacon and shredded cheddar. Cook until cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with bacon pieces and parsley, if desired.
How to Serve the Soup
Serve this hearty soup hot, preferably with a side of crusty bread or a green salad. The side helps balance out the rich, creamy flavors.
How to Store Hearty Split Pea Soup
Store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can freeze it for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make the Best Split Pea Soup
1. For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use vegetable stock.
2. Make sure to wash the peas well to get rid of any grit or dirt.
3. Don’t rush the cooking process. Let the peas cook slowly until they’re soft.
Variation
Add in some smoked sausage or diced ham for a meatier version. You could also add in some diced tomatoes for a tangier flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh peas instead of split peas?
While you can use fresh peas, it would alter the flavor and texture significantly. Split peas are dry and have a unique taste that fresh peas lack.
2. What other meats can I use instead of bacon?
You can use ham or sausage as an alternative to bacon.
3. Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other meltable cheeses like Colby or Monterey Jack. Remember, each cheese will impart a different flavor.