Split Pea Soup for a Large Group 🌿🍲
Description:
This beloved family recipe, passed down from my mother, is a hearty and satisfying split pea soup that’s perfect for feeding a large crowd. With a generous mix of vegetables and potatoes, this soup is so thick that it stands up to your spoon. Ideal for gatherings or events where you need a substantial and flavorful dish, this recipe makes 120 servings, ensuring everyone gets a taste of comfort. The soup’s rich texture and vibrant colors make it not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Ingredients:
- 14 gallons of water
- 6 pounds of ham (diced)
- 12 cups of celery (chopped)
- 3 large onions (diced)
- 7 cups of carrots (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced or use pre-minced from a jar)
- 3 tablespoons of onion powder
- 7 teaspoons of garlic granules
- 6 teaspoons of seasoned salt
- 4 tablespoons of parsley flakes
- 4 cups of fresh parsley (chopped)
- 4 pounds of bacon (optional, diced)
For the Split Peas:
- 2 pounds of dried split peas (rinsed)
Instructions:
-
Rinse the Split Peas: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the split peas under cold water. This step is crucial to remove any dust or impurities that may be clinging to the peas.
-
Prepare the Base: In a large pot, add the 14 gallons of water. Introduce the diced ham and chicken base (if using) into the water. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
-
Add the Split Peas: Once the base is simmering, add the rinsed split peas to the pot. Continue to simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the peas are fully cooked and have blended into a thick consistency. This usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
-
Prepare the Vegetables: While the peas are cooking, peel and dice the carrots, celery, and onions. Mince the garlic or use pre-minced garlic from a jar for convenience. Peel and dice the potatoes, keeping them submerged in water to prevent browning.
-
Add Seasonings and Vegetables: When the split peas are well cooked and have started to thicken, add the onion powder, garlic granules, seasoned salt, parsley flakes, and fresh parsley to the pot. Stir to combine.
-
Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the diced ham, carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes (and bacon if using) into the soup. Stir everything together, ensuring the vegetables and meat are well distributed throughout the soup.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Allow the soup to continue simmering until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together, about 1 hour. Stir constantly to prevent the soup from scorching on the bottom of the pot.
-
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or spices to suit your preference.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup has reached the desired consistency and flavor, it’s ready to be served. Enjoy this hearty soup with your favorite crackers or bread on the side.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 238.8
- Fat Content: 2.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 13.8mg
- Sodium Content: 443.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 36.5g
- Fiber Content: 14.6g
- Sugar Content: 6.2g
- Protein Content: 19.4g
Recipe Category: One-Dish Meal
Keywords: Vegetable, For Large Groups, Stove Top, < 4 Hours
Servings: 120
This Split Pea Soup is sure to be a hit at your next large gathering, offering both comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its rich flavor and nourishing ingredients make it a perfect choice for any event where you need to serve a substantial meal. Enjoy! 🌟🍲
