Looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body? Dive into the vibrant world of our Split Pea and Oyster Mushroom Soup! This vegetarian delight not only boasts a rich, creamy texture but also offers a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more. Perfect for chilly evenings or a healthy lunch option, this soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Ready to impress your family and friends with a bowl of comfort? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup oyster mushrooms, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced carrots to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent garlic from burning.
- Add chopped oyster mushrooms and continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown slightly.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add rinsed split peas. Stir in dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer gently for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the consistency of split peas - they should be soft and starting to break down. If too thick, add a little more broth.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup in a standard blender and return to pot.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let soup rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Split Peas: Always rinse the split peas thoroughly before cooking. This step removes any debris and helps prevent the soup from becoming gritty.
- Sautéing is Key: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup, enhancing the overall taste.
- Don’t Skip the Mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms add a unique umami flavor. If you can’t find them, feel free to substitute with another type of mushroom, but don’t miss out on the sautéing step to develop that rich flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Texture Matters: For a perfect blend of creaminess and texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This keeps some of the peas intact for a hearty bite.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each spoonful even more delicious.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t forget the finishing touch! A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil elevate the presentation and flavor of the soup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
