Why the Crockpot Pea Soup Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When I think about comfort food, crockpot pea soup always comes to mind. It’s the perfect recipe for busy days; I love how it simmers away while I go about my routine.
The rich, savory aroma fills my home, making it feel cozy even on the coldest days. I appreciate that it’s not just hearty but also packed with nutrients.
Plus, it’s fantastic for meal prep. I can make a big batch, and it tastes even better the next day.
Whether I’m sharing it with friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup always warms my soul.
Ingredients of Crockpot Pea Soup
When it comes to making a warm and hearty crockpot pea soup, the ingredients are key to achieving that comforting flavor. You’ll want to gather a mix of savory and nutritious elements that will come together beautifully as they simmer in the crockpot.
Trust me, once you have everything laid out, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dish that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. So, let’s explore what you need to whip up this delightful soup.
Ingredients for Crockpot Pea Soup:
- 1 ham bone or 2-3 pork neck bones
- 2 (32-ounce) containers chicken broth or stock
- 2 (16-ounce) bags dried split peas
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 onions, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 cups water (you can adjust as needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Now, as you gather these ingredients, let’s talk about a few considerations. If you’re like me and often forget to plan ahead, don’t sweat it. You can use pre-packaged chicken broth or stock, which saves you time and hassle.
Also, those dried split peas are your best friend here; they’re not only budget-friendly but also a great source of protein and fiber. If you find yourself with leftover veggies, feel free to toss them in as well—this soup is quite forgiving and loves a little extra love.
And don’t forget, the ham bone or neck bones lend that rich flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can skip it and still make a delicious vegetarian version. Just adjust your seasoning to pack a bit more punch.
How to Make Crockpot Pea Soup
Making Crockpot Pea Soup is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day—it’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. To start, grab your 2 tablespoons of olive oil and warm it up in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the 2 diced onions and sauté them until they’re soft and translucent. This part can feel a bit like magic as the kitchen fills with that sweet onion aroma.
Once they’re done, transfer those golden gems straight into your crockpot.
Now, let’s add in the fun stuff. Peel and slice your 4 carrots and throw them into the crockpot along with a ham bone or 2-3 pork neck bones—this is where the flavor really starts to build. Next, pour in 2 (32-ounce) containers of chicken broth or stock, depending on what you have on hand.
Don’t forget those 2 (16-ounce) bags of dried split peas; they’re the star of the show! Add 2 cups of water; I usually go with a bit more if I want a lighter soup, but you can adjust based on how thick or soupy you like it. Finally, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Give everything a good stir, and voila! You’re ready to set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic for about 8 hours.
As the soup simmers away, the flavors meld together beautifully, and you might find yourself daydreaming about how good it will taste. Just remember, if you opt to make a stock from the pork bone overnight, it’ll make removing the bones super easy the next day. You’ll feel like a kitchen wizard.
When it’s finally time to dig in, just scoop yourself a bowl, and enjoy that warm hug of soup. Who knew cooking could be this rewarding?
Crockpot Pea Soup Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
As I savor the comforting flavors of my crockpot pea soup, I can’t help but think about how to adapt this delicious recipe for low-carb diets.
Instead of dried split peas, I swap in cauliflower rice for a similar texture without the carbs. I also love adding diced zucchini or celery for extra veggies.
If I’m craving more protein, I toss in shredded chicken or turkey instead of ham. For a smoky flavor, I’ve even used smoked paprika.
These substitutions keep my soup hearty while fitting perfectly into my low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy experimenting with your variations!
What to Serve with Crockpot Pea Soup
Since a warm bowl of crockpot pea soup is already a hearty meal, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience.
I often serve it alongside crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up the delicious flavors. A light salad, like a simple green salad with vinaigrette, adds a revitalizing contrast.
If I’m feeling indulgent, I’ll whip up some cheesy garlic bread for that extra comfort. For a touch of brightness, pickled vegetables can also work wonders.
These sides not only complement the soup but also create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
If you’re looking to enjoy a hearty bowl of crockpot pea soup while keeping an eye on calories, there are several simple adjustments you can make.
First, consider using a leaner ham bone or even turkey for a lower-fat option. I often swap out some of the chicken broth for water to cut calories further.
Reducing the amount of olive oil can also help; I use just a teaspoon for sautéing.
Finally, adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini can bulk up the soup without adding many calories.
These tweaks keep the flavor rich while making it lighter!