Pea Soup(Reduced Fat)
This reduced fat pea soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. The earthy flavor of split peas is complemented by the savory notes of bacon and the aromatic essence of bay leaves. It's a nutritious meal that suits anyone looking for a warm, filling option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat all ingredients until boiling.
- Then simmer until peas are done, about 2 to 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lower-fat version, consider using turkey bacon instead of raw bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and sauté the onions in a little olive oil. To enhance flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. For added nutrition, toss in some chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking. This soup can be made ahead and freezes well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pea soup hot, garnished with crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or browse more American recipes that complement this dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea Soup(Reduced Fat) contains roughly 175 calories, with 7g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 7g 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 easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty soup.
How do I know when the peas are done?
The peas are done when they have softened and broken apart, creating a creamy texture. This typically takes about 2 to 3 hours on the stovetop. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired thickness.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, leeks, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, particularly for harder vegetables like potatoes, which may need a bit longer to become tender.
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).