Pea porridge, often referred to as pea soup or split pea porridge, is a hearty and nutritious dish made from split peas. It's simple to prepare and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. Here’s a classic recipe for Split Pea Porridge:
Split Pea Porridge Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or chives)
Instructions:
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Rinse the Peas: Rinse the split peas under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. Set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
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Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Peas and Liquid: Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth (or water), thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are soft and the porridge has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If it gets too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
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Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
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Serve: Ladle the porridge into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips:
- Optional Add-ins: You can add cooked bacon or ham for additional flavor, or include other vegetables like potatoes or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Texture Preference: For a smoother texture, you can blend the porridge with an immersion blender or regular blender after cooking.
- Storage: Leftover porridge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your comforting and nutritious pea porridge! If you have any specific variations or additions in mind, let me know!
