Gluten-free Split Pea Soup

Gluten-free Split Pea Soup Recipe - Cumin, Pepper, Allspice, Garlic, Parsley, Cinnamon, Sesame Seeds, Salt, and More!

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 3-4 hours on medium or 5-6 hours on low | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Split pea soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This gluten-free version of the classic soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

History

Split pea soup has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in many different cultures around the world. The soup is believed to have originated in Europe, where it was a staple dish for peasants due to its affordability and simplicity. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and seasonings, making it a versatile and delicious meal option.

Ingredients

2-3 tsp of cumin
0.5 tsp of herb pepper seasoning
0.5 tsp of allspice
a dash of garlic (to taste)
a dash of parsley
1-2 tsp of cinnamon
1 tsp of sesame seeds (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp of dry mustard (or 1-2 tsp of prepared mustard)
1 to 2 cans of chicken broth
3 stalks of celery, chopped
3 carrots, grated or chopped
6 potatoes, peeled and cubed
0.5 onion, chopped
2 lb (907 g) of ham, cubed
1 bag of green split peas

How to prepare

In a large stockpot, add the above ingredients.
Cover the ingredients with water, plus two inches extra, and bring to a boil.
Cook on medium heat for three to four hours (or low heat for five to six hours).
Serve.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Use smoked turkey or bacon instead of ham for a different twist on the classic recipe.
Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the split peas before adding them to the soup to remove any excess starch.

- For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup before serving.

- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors of the soup.

- For a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this gluten-free split pea soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the soup on low heat allows the flavors to meld together and the split peas to soften to the perfect consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

- Substitute smoked turkey or bacon for the ham for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This gluten-free split pea soup pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 12g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

- Calcium: 8% DV

Alergens

Contains: Sesame seeds

Summary

This gluten-free split pea soup is a nutritious and delicious meal option that is high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based proteins into their diet.

Summary

This gluten-free split pea soup is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is perfect for a cold winter day. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. I had always loved split pea soup, but being gluten-free, I had never been able to enjoy it to its fullest. So when I came across a recipe for gluten-free split pea soup, I knew I had to try it.

I had learned how to make split pea soup from my own grandmother many years ago. She had a secret ingredient that she swore made all the difference – a pinch of nutmeg. I had been making her recipe for years, always adding that special touch, but now I was eager to try something new.

The recipe called for simple ingredients – split peas, carrots, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth. It seemed like a straightforward dish to make, but the gluten-free aspect added a challenge. I had never cooked with gluten-free ingredients before, but I was determined to make it work.

I started by soaking the split peas overnight, as the recipe instructed. The next day, I chopped up the carrots and onions, and minced the garlic. I sautéed the vegetables in a large pot until they were soft and fragrant, then added the split peas and vegetable broth.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. I remembered all the times I had watched my grandmother cook in her kitchen, the way she moved with such grace and precision. I missed her dearly, but I knew she would be proud of me for trying something new.

After the soup had cooked for a few hours, I carefully pureed it with an immersion blender until it was smooth and creamy. I added a pinch of nutmeg, just like my grandmother used to do, and gave it a taste.

The flavor was unlike any split pea soup I had ever tasted. It was rich and hearty, with a depth of flavor that I had never experienced before. The gluten-free aspect didn't detract from the dish at all – if anything, it enhanced it.

I served myself a bowl of soup, garnished with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. As I took my first spoonful, I couldn't help but smile. This was a triumph, a new recipe that I had mastered with ease.

I made a mental note to share the recipe with my friends and family, to spread the joy of gluten-free split pea soup far and wide. I knew that my grandmother would have approved, that she would have been proud of me for carrying on her culinary legacy.

As I sat at the table, savoring each spoonful of soup, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Cooking had always been my passion, my way of expressing love and creativity. And now, with this new recipe in my repertoire, I felt even more inspired to keep experimenting and learning.

I finished my bowl of soup with a satisfied sigh, feeling grateful for the opportunity to try something new. This gluten-free split pea soup had opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me, and I couldn't wait to see where my culinary journey would take me next.