Name: Maple Bacon Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup split peas (rinsed); 4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped); 1 medium onion (diced); 2 carrots (diced); 2 celery stalks (diced); 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 2-3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

When the chilly winds blow and the days get shorter, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of Maple Bacon Split Pea Soup. Imagine a steaming pot filled with tender peas, crispy bacon, and a hint of maple sweetness wafting through your kitchen. delicious honey butter biscuit sliders The delightful aroma will have your family flocking to the table faster than you can say “delicious.”

This soup is not just another recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners. Picture yourself nestled in your favorite chair, a warm blanket draped over your lap, and a bowl of this hearty goodness in hand as you swap stories with loved ones. hearty pumpkin mushroom chili It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something hearty to fill your belly and warm your heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Maple Bacon Split Pea Soup combines savory and sweet flavors effortlessly, making it a standout dish
It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time
The vibrant green color will brighten any dinner table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or paired with crusty bread for dipping

I remember the first time I made this soup; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. They even went back for seconds (and thirds) before I could serve dessert!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Split Peas: Look for bright green or yellow peas; both work well but offer slightly different flavors.
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor you’ll love.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth—don’t skimp on this!
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring a lovely sweetness and vibrant color to your soup. miso glazed carrots recipe.
Celery: Adds texture and a refreshing crunch; opt for crisp stalks.
Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to better control the seasoning of your soup.
Maple Syrup: A splash of pure maple syrup enhances the flavors with natural sweetness—trust me, it’s magic!
Garlic: Fresh garlic will elevate the flavor profile; use 2-3 cloves minced for best results.
Thyme: Dried thyme complements the soup beautifully; fresh is great too if you have it on hand.
Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings to enhance all those yummy flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare yourself for an adventure into the world of comforting soups.

Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving drippings behind for flavor.

Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes—stirring occasionally.

Add Garlic and Thyme: Toss in minced garlic and dried thyme. Sauté for another minute until aromatic—your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!

Add Split Peas and Broth: Stir in split peas, then pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to low—let it simmer gently.

Add Maple Syrup and Seasonings: After about 40 minutes of simmering, stir in maple syrup along with salt and pepper. Adjust seasonings as needed based on your taste preferences.

Blend Until Creamy (Optional): For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer batches to a blender carefully until desired consistency is reached.

Now that you’ve created this culinary masterpiece, serve it hot!

Garnish each bowl with crispy bacon bits on top for added texture—and maybe some fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every spoonful as you bask in the warmth of flavors that come together beautifully in this Maple Bacon Split Pea Soup! For more inspiration, check out this Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe.

You Must Know

This Maple Bacon Split Pea Soup combines savory bacon with earthy split peas for a comforting dish
Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for chilly evenings, bringing warmth to your heart and home
Don’t forget the crispy topping; it’s a game changer!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by frying bacon until crisp, then sauté onions and garlic in the rendered fat. Add split peas, broth, and seasonings, simmering until peas are tender and creamy.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out bacon for smoked turkey or add extra veggies like carrots or celery. A splash of apple cider vinegar can brighten the soup beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a little water if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect maple bacon split pea soup, ensure you rinse the peas well before cooking to remove any debris
Use quality broth for deeper flavor, and don’t rush the simmering process; patience creates creaminess
Lastly, always taste before serving—adjusting seasoning is key!

It was a chilly evening when I first made this soup. Friends gathered around my kitchen island, eagerly awaiting that first bite—everyone left with full bellies and happy hearts.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Maple Bacon Split Pea Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute bacon with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without meat.

How long does it take to cook split peas?

Split peas typically cook in about 30-40 minutes when simmered gently.

What should I serve with this soup?

A crusty loaf of bread pairs perfectly with Maple Bacon Split Pea Soup for dipping! pull apart cranberry brie bread.