Welcome to a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean Netherlands! In this recipe, we'll explore the beloved dish of Erwtensoep, a hearty pea soup that encapsulates the essence of warmth, comfort, and tradition. Originating from the Dutch Caribbean islands of Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius, this dish reflects the diverse cultural influences of the region, blending Dutch culinary heritage with local ingredients and spices.

As we delve into the preparation of Caribbean Netherlands Erwtensoep, get ready to savor the rich aroma of simmering peas, the robust flavors of smoked meats, and the satisfying textures of vegetables. Whether you're seeking a soul-soothing meal for a chilly evening or a taste of island-inspired cuisine, this recipe promises to delight your senses and transport you to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean. Let's dive in and discover the magic of Erwtensoep together!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried split peas
• 8 cups water
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• Slices of bread for serving

Instructions:

1- Rinse the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

2- In a large pot, combine the water, split peas, smoked ham hock or turkey leg, onion, carrots, celery, potatoes, garlic, bay leaf, and thyme.

3- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, partially covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4- As the soup cooks, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

5- Once the soup has thickened and the peas are fully cooked, remove the ham hock or turkey leg from the pot. Discard any bones, skin, and excess fat. Shred the meat and return it to the pot.

6- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.

7- Remove the bay leaf from the soup.

8- Ladle the Caribbean Netherlands Erwtensoep into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

9- Serve hot with slices of bread on the side for dipping.

Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of this traditional Caribbean Netherlands dish!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients listed in the recipe:

Dried Split Peas (2 cups):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 74g
• Fiber: 26g
• Fat: 1g

benefits:

• High in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and potassium.
• Supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Water (8 cups):

• Water has no calories, fat, protein, or carbohydrates.

benefits:

• Essential for hydration and overall bodily functions.
• Aids in digestion, nutrient absorption, and toxin removal.

Onion, chopped (1 large):

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Supports heart health, immune function, and may have cancer-fighting properties.

Carrots, diced (2 medium):

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body.
• Promotes eye health, boosts immune function, and supports skin health.

Celery stalks, diced (2 stalks):

• Calories: 20
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Supports digestion, hydration, and may help lower blood pressure.

Potatoes, peeled and diced (2 medium):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 6g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Good source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Provides vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins.
• Supports digestive health and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Garlic, minced (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Contains compounds with potent medicinal properties, including allicin.
• Boosts immune function, supports heart health, and may have antibacterial and antiviral effects.

Smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg (1 hock or leg):

• Nutritional values vary depending on the specific cut and preparation method. Typically, they are high in protein and fat, with varying levels of sodium.

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
• Adds rich flavor and texture to dishes.

Bay Leaf (1 leaf):

• Negligible caloric value.

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants and compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
• May aid in digestion and promote respiratory health.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric value.

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants and essential oils with antimicrobial properties.
• Supports immune function and may help relieve respiratory issues.

Salt and Pepper:

• Negligible caloric value.

benefits:

• Enhance flavor and taste of dishes.
• Salt provides essential electrolytes, while pepper contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

Chopped Fresh Parsley (for garnish):

• Negligible caloric value.

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron.
• Supports detoxification, digestion, and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Slices of Bread (for serving):

• Nutritional values vary depending on the type of bread used. Typically, bread is a good source of carbohydrates, with varying levels of protein and fiber.

benefits:

• Provides carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals depending on the type of bread used.
• Supports satiety and may contribute to overall nutrient intake.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the specific brands of ingredients used and variations in preparation methods.