Polish Pea Soup – Split Pea Soup

why make this recipe

Polish Pea Soup, often known for its comforting warmth and hearty flavors, is a beloved dish that brings the tastes of Poland to your kitchen. With its rich, smoky undertones from the bacon and the smooth texture of the split peas, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a perfect meal for cold days, offering a sense of coziness while being packed with protein and fiber. Moreover, it’s a straightforward recipe that can be easily made at home, creating a delightful family meal that everyone can enjoy.

how to make Polish Pea Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Split peas
• 1/2 lbs Smoked bacon
• 2 large Carrots (peeled)
• 1 Parsley root (peeled)
• 1 piece of Celery root (peeled)
• 1 small Leek
• 1 Onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp Oil
• 2 Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1-2 tbsp Dried marjoram
• 2 Bay leaves
• 5 Allspice berries
• 5 Black peppercorns
• 1 lbs Russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
• Fresh parsley

Directions:

1. Wash the split peas, cover them with cold water, and let them soak for 1 hour. Drain, then cook in fresh water until soft, about 45-60 minutes. Add a teaspoon of salt towards the end of cooking.
2. In a large pot, combine 2 liters of water, smoked bacon, carrots, parsley root, celery, leek, bay leaves, allspice berries, and black peppercorns. Cook for about 30 minutes until the bacon is tender.
3. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for another 15 minutes until almost tender. Remove the vegetables and bacon from the pot.
4. Blend the cooked peas until smooth, reserving some whole peas if desired. Add the blended peas to the soup.
5. Slice the cooked bacon and return it to the soup.
6. (Optional): In a pan, sauté the onion in oil until golden. Add the flour, cook for a minute, then stir in a few tablespoons of the broth. Add this mixture to the soup.
7. Add the minced garlic, dried marjoram, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
8. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

how to serve Polish Pea Soup

Serve the hot soup in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a side of pickles to enhance the traditional experience.

how to store Polish Pea Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months.

tips to make Polish Pea Soup

• Make sure to soak the split peas, as this helps them cook more evenly and quickly.
• For additional depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving to brighten up the taste.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste; don’t be afraid to add more herbs or spices if you like it a bit stronger.

variation

You can add other vegetables like potatoes or even smoked sausage in place of bacon for a different flavor. A vegetarian version is also easy; just omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh peas instead of split peas?
Fresh peas will not work well for this recipe as they will not provide the same creamy texture. Stick to split peas for best results.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?
If you skip the all-purpose flour or use a gluten-free flour, the soup can easily be made gluten-free.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day! Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer.

Enjoy making this delightful Polish Pea Soup, a filling dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home!