Newfoundland Pea Soup: A Hearty Delight from the East Coast
If you’ve ever set foot in Newfoundland, the rich, comforting aroma of a traditional pea soup might have enveloped you, making it nearly impossible to resist. This recipe captures the essence of that culinary experience, allowing you to recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own home. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, Newfoundland Pea Soup stands as a testament to the island’s warm hospitality and culinary heritage.
Cook Time
1 hour
Prep Time
20 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 20 minutes
Description
Newfoundland Pea Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines yellow split peas, hearty vegetables, and savory ham into a thick, nourishing soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it alongside crusty bread for a delightful experience.
Recipe Category
Low Cholesterol
Keywords
Healthy, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1/2 |
| Ham | 1 |
| Carrot | 1 |
| Turnip | 1 |
| Potatoes | 1 |
| Water | 3 |
| Salt | 2 |
| Pepper | to taste |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 |
| Baking Powder | 2 |
| Salt | 1/2 |
| Margarine | 2 |
| Water | 3/4 |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3177.4 |
| Total Fat | 54.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 235.9 mg |
| Sodium | 9316.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 472 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 85.6 g |
| Sugars | 38.5 g |
| Protein | 199.1 g |
Instructions
Preparing the Soup:
-
Begin by rinsing the 2 cups of yellow split peas under cold running water until the water runs clear, ensuring any impurities are washed away. In a large saucepan, combine these peas with 3 cups of water and the 1/2 onion that you have finely chopped.
-
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the peas to cook for about 30 minutes, or until they become tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
After the split peas have softened, incorporate the ham, 1 carrot diced into small cubes, and the 1 turnip peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Continue to simmer for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and their flavors to meld into the soup.
-
Finally, add the 1 potato that has been peeled and diced. Cook until the potato is soft, which should take another 10-15 minutes. During this time, you may want to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with 2 teaspoons of salt and pepper to your liking.
Making the Dumplings:
-
While the soup simmers, turn your attention to the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution.
-
Cut 2 tablespoons of margarine into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. This process is crucial for achieving the light texture of the dumplings.
-
Gradually stir in 3/4 cup of water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this could make the dumplings dense.
-
Once the soup has reached the desired thickness and the vegetables are cooked through, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the boiling soup.
-
Boil the soup uncovered for about 10 minutes, then cover the pot and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the dumplings to steam and rise to fluffy perfection.
-
After the dumplings have cooked, give the soup a gentle stir to ensure everything is well combined.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the warm Newfoundland Pea Soup into bowls and serve hot, perhaps with a slice of homemade bread or some crusty rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this delightful, hearty dish with family and friends.
Conclusion
This Newfoundland Pea Soup recipe not only fills the belly but also warms the heart, capturing the spirit of Newfoundland’s culinary traditions. With its easy preparation and low-cost ingredients, it’s a wonderful dish to enjoy on chilly days or whenever you’re in need of a comforting meal. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create a pot of this soul-satisfying soup that is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Enjoy every spoonful!
