Swedish pea soup
Traditional Scandinavian Swedish pea soup, also known as ärtsoppa, is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This hearty soup is a staple in Sweden, particularly during the long winter months when it is cold and snowy outside. Made with yellow split peas, pork or ham, vegetables and spices, it is a perfect comfort food, warming and filling.
The key ingredient in Swedish pea soup are yellow split peas, which are an important source of protein, fiber and nutrients. These peas have been cultivated in Scandinavia since the 1600s and have become a vital part of the Swedish cuisine. The rich, earthy flavors of the yellow split peas make the soup more wholesome and nourishing.
The soup also typically contains a variety of vegetables such as onions, leeks, carrots, and sometimes celery or parsley. These ingredients add flavor and texture to the dish and provide additional nutrition. The soup is traditionally served with mustard and crispy fried bacon, which adds a smoky, salty flavor to the dish.
Pork or ham is another essential ingredient in Swedish pea soup. The meat is typically cooked together with the peas, vegetables and spices to impart its flavors and create a rich, savory base. Some traditional recipes call for a smoked pork hock, which adds a unique smoky flavor to the soup.
Swedish pea soup is not only delicious but also healthy. It is a low-fat, high-fiber dish that provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in iron, which is important for healthy blood cells, and folate, which is essential for pregnant women and growing children.
The history of Swedish pea soup is closely tied to the culture and traditions of Scandinavia. The soup has been enjoyed in Sweden since the Middle Ages and has become an important part of the Swedish identity. One famous story tells of a Swedish king who in the 1700s was saved from starvation by eating pea soup during a battle. In honor of this event, it became tradition for the Swedish army to eat pea soup on Thursdays.
Today, Swedish pea soup is a staple in Swedish households and is served in many restaurants and cafes throughout the country. The soup is typically served with a side of crispbread, which is a flat, hard bread that is popular in Scandinavia. The combination of the soup and crispbread is the perfect comfort food for a cold winter day.
In conclusion, Swedish pea soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a traditional dish that is not only delicious but also provides important nutrients and has a rich history. Whether served with mustard and fried bacon or with a side of crispbread, this soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried yellow split peas
- 10 cups water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 smoked ham hock or bone-in ham steak
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
-
Rinse the dried split peas and place them in a large pot with 10 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
-
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir to combine.
-
Place the ham hock or ham steak in the pot, along with the bay leaf and dried thyme.
-
Cover the pot and simmer for 1-2 hours, until the split peas are tender and the ham is cooked through.
-
Remove the ham from the pot and separate the meat from the bone. Discard the bone and chop the meat into small pieces.
-
Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
-
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped ham and butter until the butter is melted.
-
To make the soup even creamier, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream just before serving.
-
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious Scandinavian Swedish Pea Soup!