DINNER IN 90 MINUTES
PANTRY-FRIENDLY
1
Step 1
Fry the onion, carrots and celery in the oil until soft.
DINNER IN 90 MINUTES
PANTRY-FRIENDLY
SOUP · LUNCH
Split Pea Soup
Thick, warming split pea soup with optional smoked ham. Serves 6; about 1½ hours.
Total time90 min
YieldServes 6
DietNo specific diet
Shopping10 ingredients
DifficultyEasy
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Everything you need, in order.
Check ingredients as you gather them, then work through 4 calm, clearly numbered steps.
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Ingredients
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Method
4 steps · about 90 minutes total
2
Step 2
Add the split peas, stock, bay leaf and ham hock or bacon if using.
3
Step 3
Simmer, partly covered, for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring now and then, until the peas break down and the soup is thick.
4
Step 4
Remove the ham hock, shred the meat and return it. Blend some of the soup for a smoother texture if you like, then season.
Before you serve
Cooking notes & good-to-know answers.
Small details for confident timing, useful swaps, and safer leftovers.
Cooking notes
Leave out the meat and use vegetable stock for a vegetarian soup.
The soup thickens as it stands; add water when reheating.
Serve with fresh bread.
Good to know
No. Rinse them well; they soften as they simmer.
Simmer it longer uncovered, or blend part of it.
Yes, for up to three months.
About this recipe
Thick split pea soup, known in many South African homes as ertjiesop, is a filling winter staple. Smoked ham adds depth, but it is good without meat too.
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