Split Pea Veggie Soup Recipe
Overview
This Split Pea Veggie Soup recipe is a hearty and economical dish that combines the richness of split peas with the savory flavors of ham hocks and the textural contrast of okra. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it’s easy to prepare and requires less than 4 hours to cook, making it ideal for those looking to whip up a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 ham hock
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1 cup okra (fresh or frozen)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 60.1
- Total Fat: 0.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 3mg
- Carbohydrates: 11.5g
- Fiber: 1.9g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 3.8g
Recipe Details
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Yield: 2 quarts
Description
This recipe for Split Pea Veggie Soup was born out of necessity and creativity, utilizing ingredients typically found in the pantry or freezer. The addition of ham hocks not only infuses the soup with flavor but also stretches a modest budget, turning a simple dish into a satisfying meal. Okra, known for its unique texture, adds a bit of bite to an otherwise mild-flavored soup, reminiscent of traditional Southern cooking where okra is often used to thicken and enrich dishes like gumbo.
Recipe Category & Keywords
- Category: Beans
- Keywords: Weeknight, < 4 Hours, Easy, Inexpensive
Recipe Instructions
- Prepare split peas according to package directions.
- Once the split peas are well done, add the ham hock and frozen vegetables (corn and okra).
- Simmer the soup until the vegetables are tender and the ham hock is thoroughly cooked.
- The okra will contribute a slightly thick, gumbo-like consistency to the soup.
- During simmering, watch for any signs of scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, especially when using a crock pot.
Cooking Tips
- Ham Hocks: If you prefer a meatier soup, you can increase the amount of ham hock or add other cuts of pork.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking to taste, considering the natural saltiness of the ham hock.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness and flavor.
This Split Pea Veggie Soup recipe not only satisfies the palate but also provides a wholesome and nourishing meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a comforting bowl of soup. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures that this dish brings to your table!
