High Protein Split Pea Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with nutrition and flavor. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy lunchtime, having a go-to dish that nourishes the body and warms the soul is essential. Enter high protein split pea soup—a robust and satisfying stew that not only caters to your taste buds but also keeps you full and energized. With its wholesome ingredients and rich flavors, it’s perfect for the man or woman on the go who still wants to eat healthily. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making this delicious meal from scratch!

Why You Will Love This High Protein Split Pea Soup

Imagine coming home after a long day, exhausted and not even sure what to cook for dinner. You crave something hearty, but you also want a dish that’s easy to prepare. This is where high protein split pea soup comes into play. It’s incredibly simple to make, requires minimal prep work, and is made with ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, with a cooking time of under an hour, it’s a lifesaver for busy individuals or families. You will love how effortless it is to whip up this delightful soup that nourishes your body while fitting seamlessly into your hectic lifestyle.

But that’s not all! This soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it ideal for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to add more protein to their diet without excess fat. The split peas offer a great, chunky texture, and when combined with aromatic herbs and spices, you’ll find a satisfying depth of flavor that you haven’t experienced before. Truly, high protein split pea soup is not just a meal — it’s an experience!

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

Before diving into making your split pea soup, here are a few practical tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Soaking Isn’t Necessary: Unlike other legumes, split peas do not require soaking. However, rinsing them under cold water is recommended to remove any debris.
• Flavor Boost: Sautéing onions, garlic, and spices before adding the peas enhances the flavor. Take a few minutes to do this step to create a more aromatic soup.
• Consistency Control: For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of liquid used. You can always add more broth later if it’s too thick for your preference!
• Storage: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. This soup freezes well, so don’t hesitate to batch cook!

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

This high protein split pea soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with a variety of health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of nutritional elements found in split peas:

• High in Protein: One cup of cooked split peas contains about 16 grams of protein, making it a fantastic option for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Fiber: With nearly 16 grams of dietary fiber per serving, this soup promotes digestive health and helps in weight management by keeping you full longer.
• Loaded with Nutrients: Split peas are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, which are vital for energy.
• Low in Fat: This soup is naturally low in fat, making it a heart-healthy choice. The absence of saturated fats can contribute to better cardiovascular health.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Ingredient	Substitution Options
1 cup split peas	Green or yellow lentils
1 onion, chopped	Shallots or leeks
2 carrots, diced	Parsnips or sweet potatoes
2 celery stalks, diced	Bell peppers
4 cups vegetable broth	Chicken broth or water
2 cloves garlic, minced	Garlic powder (1 tsp)
1 tsp thyme	Oregano or basil
Salt and pepper to taste	N/A

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your high protein split pea soup:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing the split peas under cold water and chopping all your vegetables.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for unlocking rich flavors.
3. Add Veggies: Incorporate the diced carrots and celery, stirring occasionally for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly.
4. Add Split Peas: Stir in the rinsed split peas along with the thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot and increase the heat until it reaches a boil.
6. Simmer: Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow the soup to cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
7. Blend for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup right in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a portion to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
8. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasonings as necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavor.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy warm! For added flair, consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

FAQ

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make high protein split pea soup in a slow cooker, simply place all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cover with broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender.

How can I make the soup spicier?

If you’re looking to add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper to the pot when you sauté the onions and garlic. Adjust to your heat preference.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes! If you prefer a meatier soup, you can add diced ham, turkey, or bacon. Brown the meat in the pot before adding the vegetables for more integrated flavors.

How do I store leftovers?

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable broth, but you can also use water if you want an even lighter option. Just be sure to add extra seasoning to make up for the lack of broth flavor.

Conclusion with light call to action

There you have it—a delicious and nutritious high protein split pea soup that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its wholesome ingredients, ease of preparation, and wealth of health benefits, this soup is bound to become a staple in your home. So why not give it a try tonight? Whether enjoyed solo or shared with family and friends, this soup is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

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