Dilled Split Pea Soup
A hearty and creamy split pea soup infused with dill, topped with crispy bacon, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a skillet until crisp; remove to absorbent paper to drain and reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
- Add split peas to boiling water in a medium-sized saucepan; add salt, bacon drippings, and finely chopped onion.
- Cover and boil gently for 1 hour, adding about 1 cup of water during cooking as needed.
- Add dill weed; cover and cook over very low heat for 30 minutes longer.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in evaporated milk and cayenne pepper; heat to serving temperature.
- Crumble bacon and sprinkle on top of each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil instead of bacon drippings. Adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it after cooking. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as the saltiness may vary based on the bacon used. For additional flavor, consider incorporating smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with crumbled bacon on top for added texture and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Cajunized Oriental Pork Chops, which adds a nice contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened too much. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dilled Split Pea Soup contains roughly 250 calories, with 12g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (176% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (90% of the Daily Value), and iron (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 885mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
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 dried herbs instead of fresh dill?
Yes, you can use dried dill weed instead of fresh. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Just remember to add it during the last cooking phase to preserve its flavor.
How do I make this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water. Replace the evaporated milk with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative for a creamy texture without dairy.
What can I add to make the soup heartier?
To make the soup heartier, consider adding diced carrots, celery, or potatoes during the initial cooking stage. These vegetables will add extra flavor and nutrition. You could also include cooked sausage or ham for additional protein.
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).