What's For Dinner: Pea Soup

April has a way of being both bustling and quietly contemplative, doesn't it? The world outside is bursting with green, buzzing with the promise of new life, and yet, sometimes, my soul still craves the gentle embrace of something warm and sustaining. It's in these moments, when the world feels a little loud or my own thoughts are a touch too many, that I find myself drawn to the simple, enduring comfort of a specific meal. Not one that demands a sprint to the finish line, but one that invites a calm presence, a slow simmer, and the quiet joy of anticipation.

Pea soup, for me, isn't just sustenance; it's a slow conversation with gratitude. It’s a humble dish, unassuming in its appearance, but deeply nourishing to the spirit. There's a particular peace in watching it come together, in giving the simple ingredients the time they need to truly become something more, something whole and comforting. It’s a gentle reminder that some of the best things in life aren't rushed, but rather, patiently cultivated, much like the quiet blessings we find tucked into our everyday.

Ingredients

1 pound dried split green peas, rinsed
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)
2 cups water
1 smoked ham hock (or 4-6 slices bacon, diced)
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: a splash of cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for serving

Instructions

**Prepare the Peas:** Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold water. While some recipes suggest soaking, I often skip this step for pea soup, letting the longer simmer do its work.
**Sauté Aromatics:** In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, if using bacon, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving a little of the rendered fat in the pot. (If using a ham hock, you can skip this step or add a tablespoon of olive oil.)
**Build the Base:** Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté gently for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. This slow softening allows their sweetness to develop.
**Combine and Simmer:** Add the rinsed split peas, ham hock (if using), broth, water, bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
**The Gentle Wait:** Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The peas will slowly break down and thicken the soup. If using a ham hock, remove it after about an hour, pull the meat from the bone, shred it, and return the meat to the soup. Discard the bone and any excess fat.
**Season and Finish:** Once the peas are tender and the soup has reached your desired consistency, remove the bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper. Remember that the ham hock (or bacon) will contribute some saltiness, so taste before adding too much.
**Serve with Grace:** Ladle the warm pea soup into bowls. If you cooked bacon, sprinkle some crispy bits on top. A final swirl of cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a lovely touch, but it's wonderful just as it is.

There's something deeply grounding about a meal that asks for your patience, not your speed. It’s an opportunity to step away from the endless to-do list, to simply be present with the aromas filling your kitchen, and to anticipate the warmth it will bring. In this season of new beginnings, taking a moment to create something so enduringly comforting feels like a small, quiet act of faith – a tangible expression of gratitude for the simple gifts we're given.

What quiet comforts are you finding yourself drawn to this April, as the world stretches and awakens?

Photo by Tim McErston on Unsplash

Looking for the perfect gift (or a treat for yourself)?

Check out our unique table runners, oven mitts, and other home decor in the ArtInScienceDesigns Etsy shop. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!

AND... Follow Me on CF

#recipes #fordinner #simple #lifestyle #etsy #7propertiesga #artinsciencedesigns #homedecor #kitchendecor #thanksgiving

Translate