Ingredients and Weight:
- Split Peas: 2 cups (280 grams)
- Ham Bone or Ham Hocks: 1 piece (about 300 grams)
- Onion: 1 large, chopped (about 150 grams)
- Carrots: 2 medium, chopped (about 100 grams)
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped (about 50 grams)
- Chicken Stock or Water: 8 cups (2 liters)
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Bay Leaves: 2-3
- Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon (dried can be used)
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (slow cooker) or 2 hours (on the stove)
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a large pot or slow cooker, combine all ingredients except salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for several hours, partially covered.
- After about 2-3 hours, add bay leaves and fresh thyme.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 30 minutes to an hour, or until the soup has a rich flavor and the split peas are fully cooked.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or desired side dish.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving (depending on the amount of added fat and seasonings)
Protein: 15-20 grams
Fat: 8-12 grams (mostly from the ham bone)
Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams (from split peas and natural sugars in vegetables)
Fiber: 5-7 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Traditional European-style soup with a rich, creamy texture from the split peas.
- Ham bone or hocks provide a savory, meaty flavor that Americans often enjoy.
- Can be served as a starter or a comforting meal on colder days.
User Comments:
- "This soup was so comforting and filling! The split peas created a creamy texture that I really enjoyed."
- "I added more fresh herbs like rosemary and sage for a more robust flavor profile."
- "I used a slow cooker and it was so easy to make! The soup was ready when I got home from work."
- "I served this with some crusty bread and it was the perfect pairing."
- "My family loved this dish, especially the rich flavor from the ham bone."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Split peas do not need to be soaked before cooking, but rinsing them can help remove any dust or debris.
- Be sure to use a large pot or slow cooker as the soup will expand as it cooks.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- For a thicker soup, cook for a longer period of time or puree some of the soup in a blender before serving.
