Cholesterol Split Pea Soup
A hearty, smoky split pea soup with vegetables and herbs, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for vegetarians seeking a flavorful, nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a large pan.
- Cover and simmer for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- If the soup is too thick, add a little more water and stir.
- Serve immediately or freeze for later use.
- Add a few potatoes if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during cooking or substituting vegetable broth for water. If you're looking for a heartier soup, diced potatoes can be added for extra texture. For a smoky flavor without liquid smoke, try adding a bit of smoked paprika. If you're short on time, use canned split peas but reduce the cooking time significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with a drizzle of olive oil on top for added richness and pair it with crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal. A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables can complement the soup nicely. For a delightful twist, try it alongside a serving of 'Kvasaky' Crock Pickles for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cholesterol Split Pea Soup contains roughly 867 calories, with 35g protein, 219g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (299% of the Daily Value), iron (176% of the Daily Value), and calcium (113% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 84g 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 make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker! Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This split pea soup is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. The use of liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor without any meat, making it a perfect option for those following vegan recipes.
How can I thicken the soup further?
If you'd like a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. Alternatively, mashing some of the peas with a fork can also help achieve a creamier texture without needing any dairy.
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).