We absolutely love Hurst Split Pea Soup for its hearty comfort on chilly days, turning simple ingredients into a nourishing classic. This recipe draws from traditional American roots where split peas have been a staple for generations, offering a budget-friendly way to create flavorful meals that warm the soul.
As we’ve perfected our take on Hurst’s mix, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up a pot that’s packed with protein and veggies. Let’s explore why this soup has become a go-to in our kitchen for quick, satisfying dinners.
Ingredients
For our Hurst Split Pea Soup, we select high-quality ingredients that deliver a hearty, protein-packed flavor, building on the comforting tradition we discussed earlier. Below, we list them in the order of use, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for effortless preparation.
- 1 package (24 oz) Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix – We start with this as the base; rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris and enhance the natural pea flavor.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced – Chop finely for even cooking and to build a savory foundation in the pot.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced – We use fresh carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch rounds, to add sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Prepare by slicing into 1/2-inch pieces for a subtle crunch and depth of flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – We crush and mince these just before adding to release their aromatic essence without overpowering the soup.
- 1 ham hock or 1 cup diced ham – Opt for a meaty ham hock for rich, smoky notes, or diced ham if you prefer quicker prep.
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – We recommend using homemade or store-bought broth to achieve the ideal consistency and nutrition.
- 1 bay leaf – Add whole for herbal undertones; remember to remove it later.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – We incorporate this for its earthy flavor, which complements the peas perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Season gradually; we suggest starting with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, adjusting based on the ham’s saltiness.
Required Equipment
To prepare our hearty Hurst Split Pea Soup with precision and ease, we rely on a few essential tools that streamline the process from prep to serving. These items ensure efficient cooking while enhancing safety and flavor development.
Here’s a curated list of the required equipment, organized by preparation stage for seamless workflow:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: We recommend a 6-quart heavy-bottomed pot for simmering the soup. This allows even heat distribution and prevents scorching, ensuring our split peas cook to perfection.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: A sturdy wooden or plastic cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife helps us quickly dice onions, carrots, and celery. This setup minimizes prep time and keeps our kitchen efficient.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so we use a set of standard measuring cups and spoons to portion ingredients like broth and seasonings precisely.
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle: For stirring and serving, a long-handled wooden spoon withstands high heat without scratching the pot. We find it ideal for blending flavors as the soup simmers.
- Stove or Cooktop: A standard gas or electric stove provides the consistent heat needed for cooking. If you prefer hands-off preparation, a slow cooker can substitute for low, slow simmering.
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to transition smoothly from gathering ingredients to crafting a comforting bowl of Hurst Split Pea Soup.
Instructions
We love how straightforward it is to turn our high-quality ingredients into a comforting Hurst Split Pea Soup. Let’s walk through the steps to create this hearty, flavorful dish that warms us from the inside out.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients for optimal flavor and texture. Begin by rinsing 1 pound of Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix under cold water in a colander to remove any debris; this step ensures the peas cook evenly and absorb flavors beautifully.
Next, dice 1 medium yellow onion into ½-inch pieces for a sweet base. Slice 3 medium carrots into ¼-inch rounds to add a vibrant crunch. Chop 2 stalks of celery into ½-inch slices for earthy notes. Mince 3 cloves of garlic finely to release its pungent aroma.
Prepare the protein by trimming excess fat from 1 ham hock or 1 cup of diced ham and set it aside; if using diced ham, cut it into 1-inch cubes for even distribution. Gather 6 cups of low-sodium broth, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. With these prepped, we’re ready to build layers of taste in our Hurst Split Pea Soup.
Cook the Soup
We’ll combine our prepared ingredients in a 6-quart heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat for even cooking. First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the pot then add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften and release a fragrant, savory scent that fills the kitchen.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it becomes golden and aromatic. Add the rinsed Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix, ham hock or diced ham, broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme; bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1-2 hours; stir every 15-20 minutes to ensure the peas break down into a creamy consistency. If the soup thickens too much, add 1/2 to 1 cup of water as needed. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock (if used) before seasoning with salt and pepper to taste; the result is a rich, velvety Hurst Split Pea Soup packed with protein and vegetable goodness.
Serve and Enjoy
To serve, ladle the hot Hurst Split Pea Soup into bowls for 4-6 people, aiming for about 1-1.5 cups per serving to highlight its nourishing qualities. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper for added visual appeal and flavor pop.
We recommend pairing it with crusty bread or a simple salad to complement the soup’s hearty texture; savor the warm, earthy flavors that make this a go-to comfort meal for chilly evenings.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the beauties of our Hurst Split Pea Soup is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare it in advance to save time and let flavors deepen, or store leftovers for easy meals later. Let’s dive into practical strategies to keep this hearty soup fresh and delicious.
Make-Ahead Strategies
To maximize convenience without compromising taste, we recommend making our Hurst Split Pea Soup ahead of time. This allows the flavors of the ham, peas, and vegetables to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more comforting bowl.
- Prepare the base in advance: Start by rinsing the Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix and chopping the vegetables like diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery up to 24 hours ahead. Store these prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness and vibrant colors.
- Cook fully and cool: We can make the entire soup up to 3 days in advance. After simmering to achieve that creamy consistency, let it cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This prevents condensation and bacterial growth when stored.
- Enhance flavors: For best results, prepare the soup the day before serving. The resting period allows the earthy notes from the ham hock or diced ham and the aromatic dried thyme to intensify, making each spoonful richer and more satisfying.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage ensures our Hurst Split Pea Soup retains its hearty texture and nourishing qualities. Always use clean, airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent freezer burn.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-5 days | Transfer the cooled soup to a sealed container. We suggest stirring before reheating to redistribute the creamy peas and vegetables, then warm gently on the stove over medium heat to avoid scorching. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers for easy thawing. When ready, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the soup’s velvety consistency and robust flavor. |
By following these tips, we ensure every batch of our Hurst Split Pea Soup stays as inviting and wholesome as the first day.
Conclusion
We’ve cherished crafting this Hurst Split Pea Soup in our kitchen
It’s a go-to for cozy meals that nourish and delight
Give it a try and you’ll see why it’s become our favorite tradition
Here’s to many comforting bowls ahead
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hurst Split Pea Soup?
Hurst Split Pea Soup is a comforting, traditional American dish known for its hearty, nourishing qualities. It’s a simple, budget-friendly meal packed with protein and vegetables, perfect for chilly days. Using Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix, it delivers a creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a go-to option for quick, satisfying dinners.
What are the key ingredients for Hurst Split Pea Soup?
The main ingredients include Hurst’s HamBeens Split Pea Soup Mix, diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, ham hock or diced ham, low-sodium broth, a bay leaf, dried thyme, and seasonings. These high-quality items enhance the soup’s hearty taste and nutrition, with precise measurements for easy preparation.
How do I prepare Hurst Split Pea Soup?
Start by rinsing the split pea mix and chopping vegetables. Sauté aromatics like onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a pot, then add the peas, ham, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until creamy, about 1-2 hours. Serve with garnishes like fresh herbs or crusty bread for a comforting meal on chilly evenings.
What equipment do I need for Hurst Split Pea Soup?
You’ll need a 6-quart heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even cooking, a cutting board and sharp knife for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a wooden spoon for stirring. A standard stove or slow cooker works well to simplify the process and ensure great results.
Can I make Hurst Split Pea Soup ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients up to 24 hours in advance or cook the soup fully up to three days ahead to let flavors deepen. This makes it ideal for busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy a fresh-tasting meal with minimal effort.
How should I store leftover Hurst Split Pea Soup?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days or freeze for up to three months to preserve flavor and texture. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain creaminess for a wholesome, ready-to-eat option.
