Discover how to make Erwtensoep, a traditional Dutch split pea soup that's hearty and comforting. This recipe combines split peas, tender pork, and a medley of vegetables to create a thick, flavorful soup perfect for warming up on cold days. Follow our step-by-step guide for a delicious and authentic Erwtensoep experience.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups split peas

- 1 lb pork shoulder or ham hocks

- 1 large onion, diced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 3 carrots, sliced

- 2 celery stalks, sliced

- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 6 cups water or chicken broth

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

Prepare the Split Peas: Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.

Cook the Pork: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the pork shoulder or ham hocks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and leek. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Combine Ingredients: Return the pork to the pot. Add the split peas, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the split peas and pork are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more water or broth if needed.

Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot. Shred the meat and discard any bones or excess fat. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir to combine.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Notes:

- For a richer flavor, you can add a smoked sausage during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

- Erwtensoep is even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Nutritional Values

2 Cups Split Peas

   - Calories: 341

   - Carbohydrates: 60g

   - Protein: 25g

   - Fiber: 26g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

   - High in Protein: Great plant-based protein source.

   - Rich in Fiber: Supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

   - Packed with Micronutrients: Contains essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate.

1 lb Pork Shoulder or Ham Hocks

   - Calories: 290

   - Protein: 27g

   - Fat: 20g

   - Vitamin B6: 0.5mg

   - Zinc: 3.3mg

Benefits:

   - Rich in Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.

   - Contains Essential Minerals: Good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are important for energy production and immune function.

   - Flavorful: Adds a rich, savory taste to the dish.

1 Large Onion, Diced

   - Calories: 40

   - Carbohydrates: 9g

   - Fiber: 1.7g

   - Vitamin C: 7.4mg

Benefits:

   - Rich in Antioxidants: Contains quercetin, which helps reduce inflammation.

   - Adds Flavor: Provides a sweet and savory base for the soup.

2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

   - Calories: 4

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

   - Immune Booster: Garlic has strong antibacterial and antiviral properties.

   - Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation and supports heart health.

3 Carrots, Sliced

   - Calories: 41

   - Carbohydrates: 10g

   - Fiber: 2.8g

   - Vitamin A: 835µg

Benefits:

   - High in Beta-Carotene: Supports eye health and immune function.

   - Adds Sweetness: Naturally sweetens the soup and adds vibrant color.

2 Celery Stalks, Sliced

   - Calories: 14

   - Carbohydrates: 3g

   - Fiber: 1.6g

   - Vitamin K: 29.3µg

Benefits:

   - Low in Calories: A great option for adding bulk without many calories.

   - Contains Antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and supports heart health.

1 Leek, Cleaned and Sliced

   - Calories: 61

   - Carbohydrates: 14g

   - Fiber: 1.8g

   - Vitamin K: 47µg

Benefits:

   - Supports Digestive Health: Leeks contain prebiotics that promote a healthy gut.

   - Rich in Vitamins: Particularly high in vitamin K and folate.

1 Bay Leaf

   - Calories: 6

   - Carbohydrates: 1.4g

Benefits:

   - Adds Aroma and Flavor: Enhances the overall taste of the soup.

   - Contains Antioxidants: Bay leaves have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme

   - Calories: 3

   - Carbohydrates: 0.7g

Benefits:

   - Rich in Antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and supports immune function.

   - Adds Earthy Flavor: Complements the savory elements of the soup.

Salt and Pepper to Taste

   - Sodium: 387mg

Benefits:

   - Enhances Flavor: Balances and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

6 Cups Water or Chicken Broth

   - Calories: 5

   - Protein: 1g

   - Sodium: 343mg

Benefits:

   - Adds Depth of Flavor: Chicken broth provides a savory base for the soup.

   - Hydrating: Helps keep the body hydrated.

1 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil

   - Calories: 120

   - Fat: 14g

   - Vitamin E: 1.8mg

Benefits:

   - Adds Healthy Fats: Helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and adds richness to the dish.

   - Neutral Flavor: Does not overpower the other flavors in the soup.

This combination of ingredients provides a hearty and nutritious soup, rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The split peas and vegetables add bulk and essential nutrients, while the pork or ham hocks contribute flavor and protein.