Golden Split Pea and Sweet Potato Soup

Vegetarian Golden Split Pea and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This Golden Split Pea and Sweet Potato Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of sweet potatoes and split peas creates a rich and creamy texture that is both satisfying and nutritious.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional split pea soup, which has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. Split peas are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, known for their high protein and fiber content.

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
1 jalapeno chili, seeded and minced
1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
0.5 tsp turmeric
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
7 cups water (or more)
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
1.5 cups dried yellow split peas
6 tbsp nonfat yogurt
6 lime slices
fresh cilantro, chopped

How to prepare

Heat oil in a heavy large saucepan over medium-high heat.
Add onion and chile; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in ginger and the next 4 ingredients and cook for 1 minute.
Mix in 7 cups of water, sweet potato, and peas.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the potato and split peas are very tender, about 1.5 hours.
Whisk the soup vigorously for a smoother texture.
Thin with additional water if necessary.
Season with salt and pepper.
This can be prepared 1 day ahead, refrigerate if desired.
Return the soup to a simmer.
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Top each serving with 1 tbsp of yogurt, a lime slice, and cilantro, then serve.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
Use red lentils instead of split peas for a different flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions and chili until they are tender to bring out their flavors.

- Whisking the soup vigorously after cooking will help create a smoother texture.

- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup for an extended period of time helps to develop the flavors and create a rich and hearty dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute coconut milk for the yogurt for a creamy and dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be prepared up to 1 day in advance and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a dollop of yogurt, a lime slice, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a great source of energy for your day.

Fats

This soup is low in fat, with only 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

With 12 grams of protein per serving, this soup is a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, while split peas are a good source of iron and folate.

Alergens

This recipe is dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, this Golden Split Pea and Sweet Potato Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein.

Summary

This Golden Split Pea and Sweet Potato Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. With a rich and creamy texture and a flavorful blend of spices, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that will stay with me forever. It was a crisp autumn day, with the leaves turning vibrant shades of red and orange, and a hint of chill in the air. I had just come back from the farmer's market with a basket full of fresh ingredients, ready to whip up something warm and comforting for dinner.

As I unpacked my groceries, I stumbled upon a bag of golden split peas and a couple of sweet potatoes. I had never thought to combine these two ingredients before, but something about them just seemed to go together. I remembered a conversation I had with a dear friend many years ago about a soup she used to make with split peas and sweet potatoes. She had raved about how delicious and hearty it was, and I was intrigued.

I decided to give it a try and set to work chopping onions, garlic, and celery. I sautéed them in a bit of olive oil until they were soft and fragrant, then added the split peas, sweet potatoes, and some vegetable broth. I seasoned the soup with a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme.

As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its comforting aroma, memories flooded back to me. I thought about all the recipes I had learned over the years, from my mother, my grandmother, and friends near and far. Each recipe had its own story, its own special place in my heart.

I remembered the first time I learned how to make chicken noodle soup from my mother, who taught me to always use fresh herbs and homemade stock. I remembered the time my grandmother showed me how to make her famous apple pie, with a flaky crust and a hint of cinnamon. And I remembered the countless dinners shared with friends, each one bringing a new recipe to the table, a new story to tell.

As I ladled the golden split pea and sweet potato soup into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, I felt a sense of satisfaction and joy. This soup was more than just a meal; it was a connection to the past, a celebration of the present, and a promise of future memories to come.

I sat down at the table and took a sip of the soup, savoring the rich flavors and creamy texture. It was everything my friend had promised and more. The sweetness of the potatoes paired perfectly with the earthy split peas, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that warmed me from the inside out.

As I enjoyed my dinner, I thought about all the recipes I had yet to discover, all the stories waiting to be told. I knew that each one would bring me closer to the people I loved, to the memories we shared, and to the joy of creating something delicious from simple ingredients.

And so, as I finished my bowl of golden split pea and sweet potato soup, I made a promise to myself to never stop learning, never stop cooking, and never stop savoring the moments that make life truly special. For in every recipe, in every meal, there is a story waiting to be told. And I, for one, cannot wait to discover what delicious tales lie ahead.