Satisfy Your Cravings: Split Pea & Lentil Soup Recipe
Attention all foodies and home cooks! I’m excited to share with you my creamy split pea & lentil soup recipe. This hearty and flavorful soup will warm your body and soul, while providing essential nutrients and protein.
In a world where people are constantly on the go, it’s important to find easy and healthy recipes that can be made in no time. That’s why this soup is perfect for busy weeks, as it can be prepared ahead of time, reheated and enjoyed for days.
Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also vegetarian-friendly, making it perfect for those who want to reduce their meat intake or follow a plant-based diet. Plus, with its use of simple ingredients such as vegetables, dry green and red lentils, split peas, vegetable broth and olive oil, this recipe won’t break the bank.
So whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a cozy dinner on a cold night, my creamy split pea & lentil soup is sure to become a household favorite. Get ready to ladle up a bowl of warmth and comfort!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Welcome to my Creamy Split Pea and Lentil Soup recipe, where warm and cozy flavors meet healthy and wholesome ingredients! You’ll love this recipe for several reasons.
Firstly, this soup is incredibly nutritious! It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and plant-based protein. Thanks to the blend of split peas, green lentils, carrots, celery and onion, it’s a great way to get all the nutrients your body needs while enjoying a delicious meal.
Secondly, this soup is both easy to make and versatile. You can cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker or in an instant pot without compromising the quality of flavor. Moreover, you can customize it according to your taste by adding spices like turmeric or cumin or swapping ingredients such as sweet potato for carrot.
Lastly, this soup will warm your body and soul. With its creamy texture and earthy aroma of savory vegetables, it’s an ideal comfort food that will help you unwind during cold winter days. Plus, with leftovers or meal prep options, you’ll continue to enjoy the warmth of this soup anytime you need it!
So whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals, want to switch up your usual soup recipes or looking for a healthy yet hearty meal option, you’ll definitely love this Creamy Split Pea and Lentil Soup recipe. Get ready for a soul-warming taste experience!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy split pea & lentil soup recipe:
Vegetables
- Onion: 1 large, diced
- Celery: 3 stalks, chopped
- Carrots: 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into small pieces
Oils and Fats
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Legumes
- Split peas: 1/2 cup dry green split peas
- Lentils: 1 cup dry lentils (green or red)
Liquids
- Water: 2 cups
- Vegetable broth: 2 cups
Spices and Herbs
- Turmeric: 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper: to taste
The Recipe How-To
Now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – let’s get cooking! This Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup recipe is super easy to make and a great way to warm your body on a chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of dry green lentils
- ½ cup of split peas
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 quarts of water
- 2 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Saute the Onion and Carrots
Heat up the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the carrots and celery to the pot and continue to saute for a few minutes until they start to soften.
Step 2: Cook the Lentils and Split Peas
Next, it’s time to add in the star ingredients – split peas and lentils. Mix well and then pour in vegetable broth and water. Bring everything to boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Reduce Heat and Simmer
Reduce heat to low once everything has come up to a boil. Add in turmeric, salt, pepper, and give it another stir. Let everything simmer for around 45 minutes or until both lentils and split peas are fully cooked.
Step 4: Blend Your Soup
Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup into a blender (in batches) puree your soup into a smooth consistency.
And your soup ready! Serve it hot or you can store it for future use.
I hope that these instructions were straightforward enough for you to follow along without a hitch! The purpose of this dish is not just for it to look great but also taste great! Let me know how this recipe worked out for you by leaving a comment below!
Substitutions and Variations
A recipe is like a canvas, where the ingredients are the colors waiting to be mixed and experimented with to create a masterpiece. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this creamy split pea and lentil soup recipe that will add personality to your dish.
– Vegetarian: Looking for a vegetarian option? You can substitute vegetable broth for water, instead of using ham. You can also use coconut milk instead of dairy cream, which is a great substitute if you’re lactose intolerant.
– Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also full of beta carotene, vitamins A and C. You can easily replace some of the carrots with diced sweet potato, and enjoy an alternative flavor experience in your creamy split pea and lentil soup.
– Turkish Lentil Soup: If you want to experiment with different spices but still maintain some degree of familiarity, consider making the Turkish lentil soup variation. This version includes Middle Eastern spices such as cumin seeds, chili flakes, and dry mint. The spices create a warming effect on the body, perfect for a chilly day.
– Pressure Cooker or Slow Cooker: In a hurry? Use a pressure cooker or slow cooker to save time without compromising flavor. Simply follow the cooking instructions in your cooker’s manual for cooking split peas and green lentils (it usually takes 30–40 minutes), and use the same ingredients listed in this recipe.
The key is to be adventurous when experimenting with substitutions or variations, but remember to always taste as you go to ensure balance in flavor. At times it may take trial and error to get it right, but when you do nail it, you’ll end up with a unique dish that will have everybody begging for the recipe.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you’ve made a delicious pot of creamy split pea and lentil soup, it’s time to think about serving and pairing it with the perfect accompaniments. This soup is hearty and comforting on its own, but here are some tips on how to make it even more satisfying:
– Serve with bread: Bread and soup are the perfect match. A crusty loaf or a fresh baguette will soak up the broth nicely and give you that extra burst of flavor.
– Add toppings: If you’re looking for a little extra texture, add some toppings to your soup. Chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a nice pop of color and freshness. Or try adding croutons or crispy bacon for some crunch.
– Pair with a salad: While this soup is already packed with veggies, a side salad can help balance out your meal. A simple green salad with some tangy dressing would be perfect.
– Enjoy as a main or side dish: This creamy split pea and lentil soup is very versatile. You can enjoy it as a main course on its own or as a side dish alongside another entree.
– Pair with wine: While soup isn’t usually thought of as a wine-pairing dish, there are some nice options that would work well. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would be refreshing, while a red like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel would be slightly heartier.
Overall, the creamy split pea and lentil soup recipe is very flexible when pairing, so get creative! Pair it with whatever suits your taste buds and enjoy!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a busy chef, I understand the importance of being able to make meals ahead of time and store them for later without sacrificing flavor or quality. That’s why I’m excited to share with you some tips on how to make, store and reheat this Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup.
To make ahead, simply prepare the soup as directed in the recipe until it comes time to add the cream. Leave out the cream and allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to eat, reheat the soup over medium heat in a pot on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Then add the cream and stir well until everything is combined.
This recipe is also freezer-friendly! To freeze, let the soup cool completely before ladling it into freezer-safe containers. Be careful not to fill them too full as liquids expand when frozen. Keep in mind that dairy products (like cream) don’t always freeze well, so you may want to consider adding the cream after thawing/reheating. Safe storage time in the freezer is up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen soup, transfer it from the freezer to fridge and let it defrost overnight. Reheat as directed above once defrosted.
I highly recommend partnering this soup with some crusty bread or crackers for added pleasure that can be stored separately until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Stay tuned for more practical tips on how to get maximum life out of your food!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making the Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup recipe, nothing beats a few helpful tips that can elevate your cooking game. Over the years, I have learned some useful techniques to ensure that you create the best soup possible. Here are my tips for perfect results:
First and foremost, rinse and sort the lentils and split peas properly before using them in the soup recipe. This ensures that any debris or dirt is removed, and you get the best taste and texture out of your lentils.
Secondly, sautéing the vegetables properly is key to maximum flavor. Taking time to sauté celery, carrot, and onion until they are nice and tender before adding water will ensure they release their flavor into the soup.
A vital tip for making creamy split pea & lentil soup is adding turmeric. Turmeric not only gives the soup a beautiful color but also packs loads of health benefits. When cooking turmeric with split peas, add it towards the end so as not to lose its flavor.
Another important aspect to consider is whether to use a slow cooker or an Instant Pot to make this soup recipe. Both methods work well, but slow cookers give a more robust and richer flavor while Instant Pots cook soup faster.
One final tip for perfect results is adding vegetable broth instead of just using water. While adding water is essential when making soup recipes, it’s vital to mix in vegetable broth for added umami flavor.
By following these tips on every step of the way throughout your cooking journey with this soup recipe, you will have yourself hearty delicious Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup that will warm body and soul in no time!
FAQ
Now that you’ve got the scoop on how to make my Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup recipe, it’s time to address some of the frequently asked questions. These FAQs cover everything from how to store and reheat leftovers to ingredient substitutions and variations. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, keep reading for answers to some common queries.
Which is healthier split pea or lentil soup?
When it comes to nutrient composition, split peas and lentils have their own unique benefits. Split peas contain higher levels of certain vitamins, such as A, C, K, and some B vitamins. On the other hand, lentils are richer in protein, iron, and fiber.
Do lentils and split peas cook for the same amount of time?
When it comes to consistency, split peas develop a velvety texture once cooked, but some types of lentils retain their shape and firmness. The cooking time for split peas is relatively shorter, taking only 20 minutes approximately. In contrast, lentils take longer to cook, around 45 minutes depending on the type.
Are split peas and lentils soaked in water before cooking?
Luckily, lentils and split peas don’t require soaking, saving you one step in your cooking process. However, it’s important to make sure you still give them a good rinse before using them in your dish.
Is split pea soup the same as lentil soup?
Although split peas and lentils are both members of the legume family, they are derived from distinct sorts of legumes. Split peas, for instance, are obtained from field peas, a variety of pea that has been cultivated to be dried, while lentils are the seed of the plant itself, harvested and then dried.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, you now have everything you need to make a delicious, hearty, and nutritious Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup that is packed with flavor and goodness. The beauty of this soup is that you can easily customize it to your liking with various substitutions and variations.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a large crowd, this recipe is a great choice that will truly satisfy your taste buds and warm your body. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can achieve the perfect consistency and flavor every time.
So go ahead and try out this Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup recipe today! I promise you that it will become one of your favorite soup recipes. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious and filling enough to keep you satisfied throughout the day. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Creamy Split Pea & Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry green lentils
- 2 cups dried split peas
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 5 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 1 carrot (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 2 dried bay leaves
Instructions
- Cook your peas and lentils, in the water and broth in a large pot over medium heat for 90 minutes to two hours, or until soft. Do not drain. Transfer to a large bowl and set aside.
- In a saute pan, heat the oil. When heated, saute the onion, carrot, and celery with the bay leaves until soft. Make sure you remove the bay leaves.
- Puree the vegetables in a blender until smooth. Move to a large pot. Puree the peas and lentils in batches in the blender until smooth. Add that to the vegetable puree, and cook over medium low heat until warm. Serve in bowls.
- Enjoy!