Recipe Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Packed with nutrients and flavors, this classic soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Perfect for chilly days, it combines tender split peas, vegetables, and meat to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 350 g meat (beef or pork)
• 3-4 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 cup dry split peas (200 ml)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh herbs (dill or parsley), for garnish

Method

1. Rinse the dry split peas thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. To ensure they cook evenly, soak them in clean water for a couple of hours.
2. Transfer the soaked peas to a pot, add the meat, and cover with the required amount of water. Place the pot on the stove.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook for about 40-60 minutes until both the meat and peas are tender. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface during boiling.
4. If using bone-in meat, remove it from the pot, trim off any bones, and cut the meat into small pieces. Return the meat to the soup.
5. Add the diced potatoes to the broth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. While the potatoes cook for 10-15 minutes, sauté the chopped onion and grated carrot in vegetable oil until softened. Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Once the soup is fully cooked, stir in the chopped herbs and bay leaves. Allow it to come back to a gentle boil before tasting and adjusting the seasoning.
8. Serve the hot split pea soup in bowls, ensuring each serving has some pieces of meat. Enjoy this hearty dish with fresh bread or on its own for a delightful meal!