Greek Split Pea Soup
Course: Soup, VegetarianThis Greek split pea soup, a tantalizing vegetarian delight, offers a unique, exotic taste that’s a culinary adventure in itself. Historically, this dish has its roots deep in Greek cuisine, known for its use of simple, fresh ingredients and robust flavors. While the specific date might be a bit obscure, Greek cooking has long celebrated lentils and split peas, making appearances in ancient Greek diets and later becoming a staple in Greek households.
Taste-wise, this soup brings a zesty, tangy punch to your palate, thanks to the infusion of olives, capers, lemon, and an array of aromatic spices. The tanginess creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that might not be everyone’s cup of tea but is a treat for those who appreciate something out of the ordinary.
Calorie-wise, this vegetarian soup is a fantastic, wholesome option, rich in plant-based protein from split peas and packed with the goodness of olives and capers. It’s an excellent source of nutrients and fiber, making it a healthy choice for those looking for a hearty, filling meal without excess calories.
This soup is like a unique piece of art – not everyone might appreciate its distinctive taste, but for those who do, it’s a culinary masterpiece. It’s an invitation to experience something different, vibrant, and healthy—a bowlful of Greek tradition and hearty flavors.
Taste-wise, this soup brings a zesty, tangy punch to your palate, thanks to the infusion of olives, capers, lemon, and an array of aromatic spices. The tanginess creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that might not be everyone’s cup of tea but is a treat for those who appreciate something out of the ordinary.
Calorie-wise, this vegetarian soup is a fantastic, wholesome option, rich in plant-based protein from split peas and packed with the goodness of olives and capers. It’s an excellent source of nutrients and fiber, making it a healthy choice for those looking for a hearty, filling meal without excess calories.
This soup is like a unique piece of art – not everyone might appreciate its distinctive taste, but for those who do, it’s a culinary masterpiece. It’s an invitation to experience something different, vibrant, and healthy—a bowlful of Greek tradition and hearty flavors.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (100 g – 3.5 oz) red onion, chopped
1/2 cup (100 g – 3.5 oz) black olives, chopped
1/2 cup (20 g – 0.7 oz) chopped parsley leaves
1 cup (250 g – 8.9 oz) split pea
1 tbsp (25 g – 0.9 oz) capers
3 tbsp (40 ml – 1.7 fl oz) olive oil
2-3 bay leaves
Juice of half a lemon (40 ml – 1.4 fl oz)
Half a teaspoon of red pepper
Half a teaspoon of ground black pepper
Half a teaspoon of dried basil
Salt to taste
Directions
- Add peas, 1 liter (0.22 gal) of water (4 cups), half the red onion, half the parsley leaves, bay leaves, salt to taste, and dry basil to the pan.
- Place the pan on the heat and simmer for about 35 minutes until the peas are tender.
- Remove the bay leaves.
- Puree the mixture with an immersion blender. If you want to do without a blender, then you will have to cook the soup for 50 minutes instead of 35.
- Add olive oil and lemon juice.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle the remaining onion and parsley, add olives and capers. Also sprinkle with red pepper and ground black pepper.
- Serve the soup with bread fried in olive oil.
