Chinese Five Spice Split Pea Soup
A flavorful and aromatic split pea soup infused with Chinese Five Spice and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for both casual and family dining.
Ingredients
- 3 sprinkles dried basil
- 2 or 3 sprinkles onion powder ⓘ
- 2 or 3 sprinkles garlic powder
Instructions
- During cooking time for standard pea soup, add dried basil, onion powder, garlic powder, and chicken bouillon cubes.
- Stir frequently to combine flavors.
- Near the end of cooking, add a large pinch of Chinese Five Spice powder and stir well.
- Add salt to taste if necessary. Serve with French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of bouillon cubes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well too. Adjust the spices according to your taste; if you enjoy more warmth, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. To enhance texture, blend part of the soup and leave some whole for a heartier experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup piping hot with crusty French bread for dipping. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad or a light vegetable dish such as Stir-Fry Broccoli And Mushrooms. This soup also complements Asian-inspired meals, making it a versatile starter for any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Five Spice Split Pea Soup contains roughly 171 calories, with 4g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (190% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 12g 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 fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh basil instead of dried. Just remember that fresh herbs are typically more potent, so use about three times the amount of fresh basil. Add it towards the end of cooking to retain its flavor.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and enjoy it later.
What can I add to make the soup heartier?
To make the soup heartier, consider adding diced carrots, celery, or potatoes at the beginning of the cooking process. You could also stir in some cooked ham or sausage for added protein and flavor, making it a more filling meal.
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).