All Day Pea Soup is a hearty and comforting soup made using split peas as the main ingredient. It’s a slow-cooked soup that is perfect for a cozy meal, and it can be prepared in a crockpot or slow cooker. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what it is, its history, its components, the steps to prepare it, and the time needed:
What is All Day Pea Soup?
All Day Pea Soup is a type of soup made primarily from dried split peas. It’s known for its thick and creamy consistency, thanks to the breakdown of peas during the slow cooking process. This soup is often flavored with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes, ham or bacon for added depth of flavor.
History:
The history of pea soup dates back centuries, and it has been a staple in many cultures around the world. The slow-cooking method of preparing pea soup likely developed as a way to make use of dried peas, which have a long shelf life. It has been a popular and economical dish for centuries, enjoyed by people from different backgrounds.
Components:
The key components of All Day Pea Soup typically include:
- Dried Split Peas: The star ingredient that gives the soup its creamy texture.
- Vegetables: Common vegetables used include onions, carrots, celery, and sometimes leeks.
- Herbs and Spices: Seasonings like thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper add flavor.
- Broth or Water: Liquid is needed to cook the peas and create the soup’s base.
- Optional Meat: While it’s not a requirement, some recipes include ham or bacon for added flavor.
Steps to Prepare All Day Pea Soup:
Here’s a basic recipe for All Day Pea Soup in a crockpot:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 cups vegetable or ham broth (or water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the dried split peas under cold water and drain them.
- Place all the ingredients into the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the peas are soft and the soup is thick.
- Remove the bay leaf, and using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a regular blender, but be careful with hot liquids.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Time Needed:
The name “All Day Pea Soup” suggests that it’s a slow-cooked dish, and indeed, it takes several hours to prepare. On low heat in a crockpot, it typically takes 8-10 hours, while on high heat, it can be ready in 4-6 hours. This long cooking time allows the split peas to soften and the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy your homemade All Day Pea Soup, a classic comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for All Day Pea Soup prepared in a crockpot:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: 150-200 (varies based on recipe and ingredients)
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 10-12 grams
- Fat: 1-2 grams
- Cholesterol: 0-10 milligrams (depending on meat used)
- Sodium: 600-800 milligrams (varies based on broth and seasoning)
- Potassium: 400-600 milligrams
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and various B vitamins (especially folate).
- Minerals: Good source of iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
Health Information:
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High in Fiber: All Day Pea Soup is a great source of dietary fiber due to the split peas and vegetables. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health and can help with weight management.
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Low in Fat: This soup is generally low in fat, making it a suitable choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
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Protein: It provides a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.
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Vitamins and Minerals: The soup is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A for eye health, vitamin C for immune support, and various B vitamins for energy metabolism.
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Iron: It contains iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the body.
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Low Cholesterol: If prepared without high-fat meats, this soup can be low in cholesterol, which is heart-healthy.
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Vegetarian-Friendly: If made without ham or bacon, it’s suitable for vegetarians and can be a good source of plant-based protein.
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Low Sodium Option: For individuals watching their sodium intake, you can choose low-sodium broth and limit added salt during cooking.
Note: The actual nutrition content can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Be mindful of any additional ingredients, such as ham or bacon, which can add calories, fat, and sodium to the soup. It’s always a good idea to check nutrition labels on packaged ingredients for more precise information.
