Smoky Split Pea & Barley Bliss: California-Inspired Soup
California Pizza Kitchen’s Dakota Smashed Pea & Barley Soup Recipe
Description: This delectable soup recipe, inspired by California Pizza Kitchen’s Dakota Smashed Pea & Barley Soup, is a delightful blend of split peas, barley, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this soup is bound to become a family favorite in no time!
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Keywords: Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, Small Appliance, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 240.7
- Fat Content: 1.6g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 696.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 41.6g
- Fiber Content: 15.2g
- Sugar Content: 6g
- Protein Content: 16.3g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient | 
|---|---|
| 2 | cups water | 
| 6 | cups chicken broth | 
| 4 | onions | 
| 1/3 | cup garlic | 
| 1 | lemon (juiced) | 
| 2 | teaspoons salt | 
| 1 | teaspoon sugar | 
| 1 | tablespoon parsley | 
| 1/4 | teaspoon white pepper | 
| 1/4 | teaspoon thyme | 
| 1/8 | cup barley | 
| 1/2 | cup carrots (sliced) | 
| 6 | stalks celery (chopped) | 
| 2 | green onions (snipped) | 
Instructions:
- 
Prepare Split Peas: - Rinse and sort the split peas to remove any debris or impurities.
- In a large pot, combine the split peas with 6 cups of water, chicken broth, onions, garlic, lemon juice, salt, sugar, parsley, white pepper, and thyme.
 
- 
Cook Split Peas: - Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the split peas are soft and tender.
 
- 
Prepare Barley: - While the split peas are cooking, rinse the barley and place it in a separate saucepan with 6 cups of water.
- Bring the barley to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the barley is soft and most of the water has been absorbed.
 
- 
Puree Split Pea Mixture: - Once the split peas have cooked down into a thick soup consistency, use a handheld blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
- Alternatively, you can use a standard blender or food processor to puree the soup in batches. This step is optional but recommended for a smoother texture.
 
- 
Combine Barley and Vegetables: - Drain any remaining water from the cooked barley, then add it to the pureed split pea mixture.
- Stir in the sliced carrots and chopped celery, and continue to simmer the soup for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
 
- 
Let Soup Rest: - Once the soup has reached your desired consistency and the vegetables are tender, turn off the heat and cover the pot.
- Allow the soup to sit for 10 to 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
 
- 
Serve: - Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of snipped green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious Dakota Smashed Pea & Barley Soup!
 
Notes:
- For a vegan version of this soup, you can substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth without compromising on flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your palate.
- This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends and family.








