Norwegian Betasuppe
Norwegian Betasuppe is a hearty, comforting pea and ham soup with tender vegetables and a rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for cold days, it offers a wholesome meal that combines the earthiness of split peas with savory ham and aromatic herbs, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peas, ham hocks or chopped ham, onion, thyme, and water in a large Dutch oven.
- Add potatoes, rutabaga, celery root, leek, and salt to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add vegetables and salt, and cook for another 30 to 45 minutes until tender.
- If using ham hocks, remove, trim, finely chop, and return to the soup before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the chopped ham back in. If you don't have ham hocks, smoked turkey or bacon can be used for a similar flavor. Adding a dash of vinegar at the end can brighten the flavors. Be sure to soak the split peas overnight for a quicker cooking time and more even texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Betasuppe with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a Delicious Pork Roast for a hearty dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of pepper for added flavor. This dish also makes a great lunch option, served alongside a warm sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup freezes well, so consider portioning it out and freezing for future meals. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Betasuppe contains roughly 1048 calories, with 19g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (132% of the Daily Value), iron (82% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1810mg per serving (79% 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 make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham hocks or chopped ham and using vegetable broth instead of water. For added flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the depth usually provided by the meat.
How do I ensure the split peas cook properly?
It's important to rinse the split peas thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris. Soaking them overnight can help them cook faster and more evenly. If you notice they are still tough after the initial cooking time, let them simmer longer until tender.
What can I serve with Betasuppe?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, rye bread, or a light salad. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a side of Colcannon (Irish) for a comforting and filling dinner. A glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors nicely.
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).