Bacon and split pea soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the comforting taste of split peas. This soup is perfect for cooler days when you crave a warm and satisfying meal. The combination of tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and crispy bacon creates a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed as a comforting lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup will surely become a favorite in your household.
INGREDIENTS:
- 50g/2oz dried split peas
- 25g/1oz butter
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 175g/6oz long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons tomato purée
- 1.2 litres/2pt vegetable stock
- 175g/6oz carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 4 tablespoons single cream
- 100g/4oz streaky bacon rashers
- Salt and ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Cover the dried split peas with plenty of cold water, cover loosely, and leave to soak for at least 12 hours.
- In a heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and thinly sliced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened but not colored.
- Add the long-grain rice, drained soaked split peas, and tomato purée to the saucepan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Pour the vegetable stock into the saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice and peas are tender. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Blend three-quarters of the soup in a blender or food processor until smooth. Pour the puréed mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining soup.
- Add the diced carrots to the saucepan and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the carrots are tender.
- Stir in the chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley and single cream. Keep the soup warm.
- Finely chop the streaky bacon and sauté it in a frying pan over gentle heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on kitchen paper.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the soup and season well with salt and ground black pepper.
- Serve the bacon and split pea soup immediately.
YIELD: Serves 4
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Soaking the dried split peas for at least 12 hours helps soften them and reduce the cooking time.
- Ensure that the bacon is cooked until crispy for added texture and flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
TIPS:
- Serve the bacon and split pea soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- If desired, you can add additional vegetables such as diced potatoes or celery to enhance the soup’s nutritional value and flavor.
- Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as chopped chives or thyme, for an extra burst of flavor.
In conclusion, bacon and split pea soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your appetite. The combination of tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and crispy bacon creates a delightful symphony of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed as a comforting lunch or a satisfying dinner, this soup is sure to warm you up on cooler days.
Preparing the soup is a straightforward process. After soaking the dried split peas, you cook them with rice, tomato purée, and aromatic vegetables until tender. Blending a portion of the soup creates a smooth and creamy consistency. Adding diced carrots and simmering them until tender enhances the soup’s heartiness.
When serving the soup, don’t forget the crispy bacon. Sautéing the bacon until crispy adds a delightful crunch and a smoky flavor. Sprinkle the bacon over the soup, season it well with salt and ground black pepper, and serve immediately.
To make the meal even more satisfying, accompany the bacon and split pea soup with crusty bread or a refreshing side salad. Additionally, consider garnishing the soup with fresh herbs like chopped chives or thyme for a burst of freshness.
In summary, bacon and split pea soup is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the flavors of tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and crispy bacon. With its delightful textures and savory taste, this soup is perfect for warming up during cooler seasons.
