Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Denmark with this classic dish, Gule Ærter med Flæsk. Translating to "Yellow Peas with Pork," this traditional Danish comfort food is a symphony of tender pork belly served atop a bed of rich, simmered yellow split peas. Bursting with savory notes and a hint of sweetness, each spoonful is a nostalgic journey through Danish culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed on a chilly winter evening or as a festive treat during holidays, Gule Ærter med Flæsk promises to satisfy both the palate and the soul with its comforting warmth and hearty goodness.

Here's a traditional recipe for Gule Ærter med Flæsk:

Ingredients:

For the Yellow Pea Soup:

• 500g dried yellow split peas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 liters water
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pork:

• 500g pork belly, cut into cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Boiled potatoes
• Mustard (optional)

Instructions:

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

2- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3- Add the drained yellow split peas to the pot along with the water and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer, partially covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

4- While the peas are cooking, prepare the pork. Season the pork belly cubes with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly cubes and cook until browned and crispy on all sides, about 10 minutes.

5- Once the peas are soft and the soup has thickened, remove the bay leaves and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can leave it chunky if desired.

6- Add the cooked pork belly cubes to the soup and let simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed.

7- Serve the Gule Ærter med Flæsk hot with boiled potatoes on the side. Optionally, serve with mustard for added flavor.

Enjoy this comforting and hearty Danish dish with family and friends!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the main ingredients used in Gule Ærter med Flæsk:

Yellow Split Peas (per 100g):

• Calories: 341 kcal
• Protein: 23.5g
• Carbohydrates: 60.1g
• Fiber: 25.5g
• Fat: 1.5g

benefits:

• High in protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Good source of iron: Essential for transporting oxygen in the body and preventing anemia.

Pork Belly (per 100g, raw):

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 9.7g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 54.4g

benefits:

• Rich in protein: Supports muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
• Provides essential fats: Contains healthy fats that support brain function and hormone regulation.
• Source of B vitamins: Important for energy metabolism and nervous system health.

Onion (per 100g):

• Calories: 40 kcal
• Protein: 1.1g
• Carbohydrates: 9.3g
• Fiber: 1.7g
• Fat: 0.1g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants: Helps protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Rich in vitamin C: Supports immune function and collagen production for healthy skin.
• Provides dietary fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps regulate cholesterol levels.

Carrots (per 100g):

• Calories: 41 kcal
• Protein: 0.9g
• Carbohydrates: 9.6g
• Fiber: 2.8g
• Fat: 0.2g

benefits:

• High in beta-carotene: Converted to vitamin A in the body, important for vision health and immune function.
• Good source of antioxidants: Helps protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation.
• Contains vitamin K1: Important for blood clotting and bone health.

Celery (per 100g):

• Calories: 16 kcal
• Protein: 0.7g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1.6g
• Fat: 0.2g

benefits:

• Low in calories: Ideal for weight management and promoting hydration.
• Contains antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
• Provides dietary fiber: Supports digestive health and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Potatoes (boiled, per 100g):

• Calories: 87 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 20.1g
• Fiber: 1.8g
• Fat: 0.1g

benefits:

• Good source of carbohydrates: Provides energy for physical activity and overall body function.
• Contains vitamin C: Supports immune function and collagen production.
• Source of potassium: Important for regulating blood pressure and supporting heart health.

These values are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as cooking methods and specific ingredients used.