Mexican Split Pea Soup

Mexican Split Pea Soup Recipe | Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Mexican Split Pea Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the split peas, as well as a variety of vegetables and spices that give it a delicious Mexican twist.

History

Split pea soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries in many different cultures. The addition of Mexican flavors such as cumin, oregano, and chilies gives this traditional soup a unique and delicious twist.

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp ground cumin
2 tsp dried oregano
1 cup dry C&F green or yellow split peas, rinsed
1 qt (946 ml) water
1 4 oz (113 g) can chopped green chilies
1 14.5 oz (411 g) can whole or diced tomatoes
1 10 oz (283 g) box frozen corn kernels or 1 15 oz (425 g) can corn, drained
1 large green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
salt, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese (optional)
crushed red pepper (optional)

How to prepare

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook the onion until tender, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Stir in cumin and cook for 1 minute.
Add oregano and split peas, stirring to coat the peas with oil. Then, add water and chilies.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the peas are just tender.
Add tomatoes, corn, and bell pepper. Simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes.
Season with salt to taste.
If desired, sprinkle each serving with shredded cheese and crushed red pepper.

Variations

Add cooked shredded chicken or ground beef for extra protein.
Stir in a can of black beans for added fiber and texture.
Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the split peas before adding them to the soup to remove any dirt or debris.

- For a thicker soup, you can puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the tomatoes, corn, and bell pepper.

- Adjust the amount of chilies and crushed red pepper to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican Split Pea Soup with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red or green split peas instead of yellow split peas.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican Split Pea Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each serving of Mexican Split Pea Soup with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Mexican Split Pea Soup with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mexican Split Pea Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to thin the soup.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Split Pea Soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Split Pea Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Split Pea Soup contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Split Pea Soup contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Split Pea Soup is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may contain gluten depending on the brand of canned tomatoes and frozen corn used.

Summary

Mexican Split Pea Soup is a nutritious and filling dish that is high in protein and fiber. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Mexican Split Pea Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vegetables and spices, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Mexican Split Pea Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had found tucked away in the back of a dusty bookshelf. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a worn, stained page that was titled "Sopa de Chícharos."

Intrigued by the exotic sounding name, I read through the ingredients and instructions. The combination of split peas, cumin, garlic, and jalapeños seemed like a delicious twist on the classic pea soup that I had been making for years. Without hesitation, I decided to give it a try.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen, following the recipe step by step. As the soup simmered on the stove, the aroma of cumin and garlic filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. When it was finally ready, I ladled myself a bowl and took my first sip.

The flavor was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The earthiness of the split peas combined with the warmth of the cumin and the kick of the jalapeños created a delicious harmony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I couldn't believe how simple ingredients could come together to create such a complex and satisfying dish.

From that day on, Mexican Split Pea Soup became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even just for myself on a cold winter's day. Each time I made it, I would think back to that moment when I first discovered the recipe and marvel at how a chance encounter with a cookbook could lead to such culinary delight.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a squeeze of lime or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors even more. But the basic essence of the soup has remained the same, a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients cooked with love and care.

As I grow older, I find comfort in knowing that I have a treasure trove of recipes like Mexican Split Pea Soup at my fingertips, each one a reminder of the culinary journey that I have been on throughout my life. And I hope that one day, when I pass on these recipes to my grandchildren, they will find as much joy and satisfaction in cooking them as I have. For food is not just nourishment for the body, but also for the soul, connecting us to our past and enriching our present. And that, my dears, is the true beauty of cooking.