Split Pea and Pork Belly Soup

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups dried split peas, picked over and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add pork belly and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
4. Add split peas, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until split peas are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches, holding the lid down with a kitchen towel.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as crusty bread, croutons, or grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful
• Warm and comforting
• Suitable for all ages

User Comments:

• "This soup is absolutely delicious! The pork belly adds a richness that takes it to the next level."
• "I love how easy this soup is to make. It's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal."
• "This soup is so hearty and satisfying. It's the perfect comfort food for a cold winter day."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you can't find pork belly, you can substitute another cut of pork, such as shoulder or loin.
• To make the soup ahead of time, simply prepare it up to step 6 and let it cool. Then, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat over medium heat until warmed through.
• To make the soup vegan, omit the pork belly and add an extra cup of vegetables, such as diced zucchini or bell pepper.