Canadian Pea Soup
Hearty and comforting Canadian Pea Soup features tender yellow peas, smoky salt pork, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a nourishing meal on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and soak the dried yellow peas.
- Put the peas in a large saucepan with all the ingredients.
- Bring to a boil and let boil for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until peas are cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper, and add hominy corn if desired.
- Serve as is, or puree the soup through a sieve, mincer, or blend in an electric grinder beater.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try substituting the salt pork with smoked bacon or ham hock. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and omit the pork. Soaking the peas overnight helps reduce cooking time and improves texture. Adding a bay leaf during cooking can enhance the soup’s aroma. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a touch of color and freshness. This soup pairs beautifully with Betty'S Spanish Bean And Sausage Stew for a hearty dinner. For extra texture, consider adding some croutons or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canadian Pea Soup contains roughly 187 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use split peas instead of dried yellow peas?
Yes, you can use split peas as a substitute. They will cook faster, usually in about 1 to 1.5 hours. However, the texture may be slightly different, as split peas tend to break down more, resulting in a creamier soup.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the soup?
To boost the flavor, consider adding garlic, thyme, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce. For a spicy kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added. You can also stir in some chopped ham or sausage towards the end of cooking for additional depth.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products. Just ensure that any broth or additional ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free. You can also serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers to keep the meal compliant.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).