Erbsensuppe: Pea soup with sausage.
Erbsensuppe, a traditional German pea soup with sausage, is a hearty and comforting dish associated primarily with cold weather and fond memories around the dining table. This thick, savory soup is typically made with split peas, flavorful smoked sausages such as bratwurst or kielbasa, vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and leeks, and a base of rich chicken or vegetable stock. It is often seasoned with marjoram, thyme, and bay leaves, offering an aromatic depth to its robust flavor profile. Erbsensuppe is usually served piping hot with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top and a side of crusty bread or pretzels, embodying the rustic warmth of German cuisine.
Introduction:
There's nothing quite like the nostalgic aroma of split pea soup wafting through the kitchen. Today's recipe, inspired by Downshiftology, evokes those heartwarming family memories with a classic split pea soup that's both simple and extraordinarily flavorful. A leftover holiday ham bone serves as the cornerstone of this dish, enhancing the taste and adding richness to every spoonful. Perfect for any season and adaptable for different preferences, this soup provides a taste of home-cooked comfort in every bowl.
Ingredients:
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound dried split green peas (or yellow), rinsed and sorted
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ham bone (with some meat left on)
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup diced ham (additional as needed)
Equipment:
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Instructions:
1. Over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Once hot, add the diced celery, carrots, and onion, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Mince two garlic cloves directly into the pot, stirring the mixture for an additional minute to allow the aromatics to blend.
3. Add the rinsed and sorted dried split peas to the vegetables, taking care not to rinse them too far in advance to avoid clumping. Also add in the dried thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to integrate all of the ingredients.
4. Nestle the ham bone amid the vegetables in the pot, then add the bay leaf, chicken broth, and water. Remember that the ham bone will impart additional saltiness, so it is wise to start with less salt and adjust to taste later.
5. Bring the soup mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to achieve a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 50 to 60 minutes. During this time, periodically stir the soup to prevent sticking and encourage an even softening of the peas.
6. After the cooking time has elapsed, the peas should be tender and the soup slightly thickened. Use tongs to carefully remove the ham bone to a cutting board.
7. While the soup continues to simmer and thicken, dice any remaining ham from the bone until you have about 1 cup (more or less is fine).
8. Stir the diced ham back into the soup, distributing the meat evenly. Allow it to warm through, approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
9. Check the seasoning and add more salt if necessary. Once ready, remove the bay leaf, and the soup is now ready to be served. Enjoy the hearty embrace of this homestyle split pea soup with your friends and family.
Cooking Tips:
- Remember to sort the split peas to remove any stones or debris before rinsing.
- If the soup thickens too much upon standing, simply thin it with a little water or additional chicken broth when reheating.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the ham completely and use vegetable broth.
This savory Split Pea Soup recipe is brought to you by Downshiftology. Find more wholesome and delicious meals by visiting their channel at https://www.youtube.com/@Downshiftology.
#homemade #comfortfood #soup #hearty
YouTube channel - Downshiftology: https://www.youtube.com/@Downshiftology
Erbsensuppe: Pea soup with sausage.
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