Ultimate Comfort Food: Hearty Recipe for Split Pea Soup with Bacon

#### Recipe for Split Pea Soup with BaconIf you're looking for a warm, hearty dish that embodies comfort food, look no further than this delicious recipe fo……

#### Recipe for Split Pea Soup with Bacon

If you're looking for a warm, hearty dish that embodies comfort food, look no further than this delicious recipe for split pea soup with bacon. This classic soup combines the earthy flavors of split peas with the smoky richness of bacon, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

#### Ingredients

To make the perfect recipe for split pea soup with bacon, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 pound green split peas, rinsed and sorted

- 4 slices of bacon, chopped

- 1 medium onion, diced

- 2 carrots, diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 1 bay leaf

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Bacon**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the rinsed split peas, chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and the cooked bacon back into the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring the split peas are well distributed.

4. **Simmer the Soup**: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. **Season and Serve**: Once the peas are cooked, remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

#### Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this recipe for split pea soup with bacon lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor that develops during the cooking process. The bacon not only adds a delightful crunch but also infuses the soup with its smoky essence, complementing the natural sweetness of the split peas and vegetables.

This soup is not just a meal; it's a wholesome experience that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover bacon and pantry staples. Plus, split peas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this dish both nutritious and filling.

#### Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

This recipe for split pea soup with bacon is a delightful dish that you will want to make again and again. It’s perfect for meal prep, cozy family dinners, or even as a comforting lunch option. Enjoy the rich flavors and heartwarming aroma as you serve this classic soup to your loved ones!