Contents
Introduction
Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This hearty and nutritious recipe combines green split peas, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The Instant Pot makes preparation quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a warm bowl of soup in no time. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and filling, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Green split peas – 1 cup
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Carrot – 2 medium, diced
Celery – 2 stalks, diced
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth – 4 cups
Bay leaves – 2
Thyme – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by rinsing the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. This will help remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add olive oil, followed by chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced carrots. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Release Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by turning the valve to the venting position. Carefully remove the lid once the pressure has fully released.
Step 6: Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.
Step 7: Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and enjoy.
Notes
Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to add extra vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Celery or potatoes can be great additions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Using an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is an electric pressure cooker that allows for quick cooking by trapping steam inside the pot. This technique is beneficial for making dishes like split pea soup, significantly reducing cooking time compared to traditional methods.
Sautéing Vegetables
Before pressure cooking, sautéing aromatics such as onions and garlic in the Instant Pot’s sauté mode enhances the flavor base for the soup, providing depth and richness.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking splits and softens the peas quickly, ensuring they are perfectly tender and integrated into the soup’s texture.
Natural Pressure Release
Allowing the pressure to release naturally after cooking helps the flavors meld together and prevents spattering, ensuring a smoother soup consistency.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover split pea soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage. Thaw and reheat before serving.
FAQ
How do I know when the split pea soup is done?
The soup is done when the split peas are fully softened and have broken down, creating a thick and creamy texture.
Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes, yellow split peas can be used as a substitute for green split peas; they will produce a slightly different color and flavor.
Is it necessary to soak split peas before cooking?
Soaking is not necessary for split peas, but rinsing them before use to remove any debris is recommended.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or potatoes to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can blend a portion of it or add a bit more split peas during cooking.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any season. The use of the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also intensifies the flavors, making for a comforting meal that you can enjoy in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a delicious lunch, this soup fits the bill. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients to cater to your taste preferences.
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