Discover the vibrant flavors of Cuba with a warm bowl of Cuban Split Pea Soup! This hearty dish, brimming with nutritious split peas and aromatic vegetables, is not only a comforting delight but also a true celebration of Cuban cuisine. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a wholesome lunch option, this soup promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and unlock the secrets to creating a creamy, savory masterpiece that your family and friends will adore!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced carrots to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and to release the aromatics.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed split peas. Drop in the bay leaf and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the split peas are completely tender and have broken down, creating a creamy consistency.
- Remove the bay leaf. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially or fully purée the soup, depending on your desired texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your split peas under cold water to remove any debris and ensure a clean base for your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions and garlic until they're soft and fragrant enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer gently; this helps the split peas break down and develop a creamy texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender for a velvety finish, or mash it with a potato masher for a chunkier consistency.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup turns out too thick, simply stir in more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish for Appeal: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil not only adds flavor but also makes for an appealing presentation.
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to a week, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
