Name: Swedish Yellow Pea Soup: A Cozy, Hearty Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 2 cups dried yellow peas; 2 bay leaves; 1 ham hock; 1 quart chicken or game stock (optional); 1 leek, diced (or 1 large yellow onion); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 cups celery root, peeled and diced small; 2 carrots, peeled and diced small; 1 cup rutabaga, peeled and diced small; 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley; Black pepper, to taste

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Alright, let’s talk about Swedish Yellow Pea Soup. If you’ve never tasted it, you’re in for an absolute treat! This humble, yet flavorful dish is everything you want in a cozy soup—warm, hearty, and packed with rich, earthy flavors that make you feel like you’re wrapped up in a big blanket by the fire. Trust me, you’re going to love this one. It’s perfect for those chilly nights or whenever you want something that’s both comforting and satisfying. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make! Let’s dive into why this soup is going to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love Swedish Yellow Pea Soup

This isn’t just any soup—it’s a bowl of nostalgia, warmth, and love. Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy Sunday afternoon or serving it at a dinner with friends, this soup will surely bring a smile to your face. Here’s why it’s a keeper:

Versatile: Ideal for everything from a casual weeknight meal to impressing your guests. Imagine serving it at a cozy dinner party—everyone will want the recipe!
Budget-Friendly: Using basic pantry ingredients, this soup is super affordable. It proves that comfort food doesn’t need to break the bank.
Quick and Easy: It’s a no-fuss recipe, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Even if you’re short on time, this dish is easy to whip up.
Customizable: You can adjust the flavors to suit your personal taste. Feel like making it spicier? Toss in a bit of chili or paprika. Want a creamier texture? A swirl of cream will do wonders.
Crowd-Pleasing: This soup is universally loved. It’s perfect for both kids and adults, making it an easy choice for family dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients in Swedish Yellow Pea Soup

Let’s take a look at the ingredients that will bring this cozy bowl of goodness to life:

Yellow Split Peas: These are the heart and soul of this soup. They break down beautifully while simmering, creating that signature creamy texture.
Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances out the savory elements of the soup, making every spoonful comforting.
Onions: A staple in most soups, onions add depth and sweetness as they soften and cook down.
Celery: A fresh and slightly crisp bite that complements the creamy peas perfectly.
Potatoes: These help thicken the soup, making it even more hearty and satisfying.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the soup, adding richness and depth.
Bay Leaves & Thyme: These fragrant herbs give the soup that unmistakable, homey flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Butter (Optional): For a rich, silky finish. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, this is a game-changer.
Sausage or Ham (Optional): If you’re craving a bit of protein, adding sausage or ham is the perfect touch to round out the dish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this soul-soothing soup:

1. Prepare Your Peas

Start by rinsing your yellow split peas under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Then, add them to a large pot along with enough broth to cover them by a few inches. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally.

2. Add the Vegetables

While your peas are simmering away, chop up your carrots, onions, celery, and potatoes. Once the peas are softened and starting to break down, toss in your veggies. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together, and let the flavors meld for about 30 minutes, or until everything is tender and comforting.

3. Blend to Creamy Perfection

Once everything is tender and the peas are fully cooked, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. For a smooth, velvety texture, blend the soup with an immersion blender right in the pot (or transfer to a regular blender in batches). You can choose to leave it a little chunky for extra texture, or go for a silky smooth soup—it’s totally up to you.

4. Add the Final Touches

If you’re using butter, stir it in now for that extra richness. For a little kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This is the fun part where you can make it your own!

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a swirl of cream, or even crispy croutons. Serve hot, and get ready to dig into the most comforting bowl of soup you’ve ever had.

How to Serve Swedish Yellow Pea Soup

Pair this comforting soup with a few simple sides to complete the meal:

Fresh Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of buttered rye bread is a perfect companion to this hearty soup.
Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or a medley of roasted root vegetables make a delightful addition.
Sour Cream or Cream: For extra creaminess, swirl a bit of sour cream or heavy cream into the soup before serving.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: You can prep the vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to a day before you make the soup, saving you time on cooking day.
Spice It Up: Add a touch of heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re making this vegan, simply omit the butter and add some plant-based broth.
Storage Tips: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop and enjoy the comfort all over again.
Double the Batch: This soup freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch for those busy days when you need a quick, delicious meal.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute yellow split peas with other types of beans?
A1: While yellow split peas are key to the authentic texture of this soup, you could try green split peas or lentils as a substitute. It will alter the flavor slightly but still be delicious!

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Absolutely! This soup freezes wonderfully. Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Definitely! This recipe is perfect for doubling, especially if you want leftovers. Just make sure to use a larger pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Q6: What sides go well with this soup?
A6: Try serving it with a simple salad, some roasted veggies, or a slice of crusty bread to scoop up all that creamy goodness.

Conclusion

Swedish Yellow Pea Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl—simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out. I just know you’ll be hooked! Enjoy!