Hearty Split Pea Vegetable Soup: A Cozy and Nutritious Meal

There is nothing more soul-warming than a hearty cup of split pea veggie soup. Tender split peas are combined with a variety of fresh vegetables to create a flavourful and full soup in this substantial and nourishing recipe. This soup is ideal for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something hearty, thanks to the addition of spicy red pepper flakes and fragrant bay leaves. This soup is a tasty and nutritious dinner that is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of cream.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cups carrots (about 4-5 carrots), chopped

• 1 cup celery (about 2 stalks), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 3 cups yellow potatoes (one pound), chopped
• 2 cups dried green split peas (one pound), rinsed and sorted

• 9-10 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
• 3 whole bay leaves
• Half and half, to serve (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the vegetables by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they start to soften. Allow the scent to develop by adding the minced garlic and sautéing for an additional minute.
To season the base, add freshly ground black pepper, red pepper flakes, onion powder, and a touch of kosher salt. To allow the flavours to meld, stir everything together and simmer for one more minute.
Add the Potatoes and Split Peas: Stir together the diced yellow potatoes and washed split peas in the saucepan.
Pour in the Broth: Add nine cups of the chicken broth at first, and more if necessary. Bring the soup to a boil after adding the bay leaves.

After the soup reaches a boil, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. The soup should thicken and the split peas and potatoes should be tender after 45 to 55 minutes of simmering. If the soup becomes too thick, add extra stock and stir periodically to keep it from sticking.
Modify Seasoning: If you would like, add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes after tasting the soup. Before serving, take off the bay leaves.

offer: For those who want a richer soup, offer it on the side, or whisk in a little half and half just before serving for an extra creamy finish. For a hearty, comforting supper, eat the soup hot with crusty bread or by itself.
In summary:

Packed with flavour and nutrients, this split pea vegetable soup is a tasty and cosy meal. Split peas, soft veggies, and flavourful spices combine to create a filling dish that’s easy to prepare in advance and eat all week long. This soup is a great option for a nutritious lunch or a cosy evening, particularly when served with a piece of warm, crusty bread.