Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Hash Browns: A Hearty Meal

Slow cooker split pea soup with bacon and hash browns is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of creamy split peas, smoky bacon, and crispy hash browns creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to simply toss in the ingredients and let the magic happen.

This soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. Experiment with different protein sources, vegetables, and toppings to create your own unique version. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Hash Browns

Split pea soup is a hearty and comforting classic that’s perfect for a cold winter day. It’s traditionally made with dried split peas, broth, and vegetables, but this recipe takes things up a notch with the addition of crispy bacon and golden hash browns.

This combination of flavors and textures creates a truly satisfying and delicious meal.The unique combination of split peas, bacon, and hash browns adds a layer of complexity and richness to this traditional soup. The split peas provide a creamy base, while the bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor.

The hash browns offer a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness, complementing the other ingredients perfectly.

Slow cooker split pea soup with bacon and hash browns is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day. I love adding a little extra kick to my soup with a dollop of sweet chili thai sauce , which adds a touch of sweetness and heat.

The creamy split peas, crispy bacon, and fluffy hash browns pair beautifully with the tangy sauce, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is the ideal method for preparing this soup. The long, gentle cooking process allows the split peas to soften and meld with the other ingredients, creating a smooth and flavorful broth. The bacon and hash browns can also be added towards the end of the cooking time, ensuring they retain their texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup With Bacon And Hash Browns

This hearty and flavorful split pea soup is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Let’s explore some exciting variations that you can try!

Protein Sources

The bacon adds a smoky depth to the soup, but you can easily swap it out for other protein sources.

My slow cooker split pea soup with bacon and hash browns is a hearty, comforting meal that always hits the spot. I love the crispy texture of the hash browns and the smoky flavor of the bacon, but sometimes I want a little something extra.

That’s when I turn to my favorite side dish: air fried onion rings. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and they complement the soup perfectly. It’s a winning combination that always leaves me feeling satisfied.

• Ham:Diced ham is a classic addition to split pea soup. Use smoked ham for a more intense flavor, or opt for a leaner variety like country ham.
• Sausage:Italian sausage, chorizo, or even breakfast sausage can add a spicy kick to the soup. Brown the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Chicken:For a lighter option, try using cooked chicken breast or thighs. Shredded chicken is ideal for this recipe, as it will cook through in the slow cooker.

Alternative Vegetables

While the recipe calls for hash browns, you can also incorporate other vegetables for a more balanced flavor profile.

• Carrots:Carrots add sweetness and a vibrant orange hue to the soup. Chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
• Celery:Celery adds a crispness and a hint of earthiness. Chop it into small pieces or use celery stalks for a more substantial texture.
• Onions:Onions can be added to the soup for a savory flavor. Use yellow or white onions for a milder taste, or red onions for a bolder flavor.

Hash Brown Substitutions

Hash browns are a delicious addition to this soup, but you can also use other potato varieties or even sweet potatoes.

• Potatoes:You can substitute the hash browns with diced potatoes. Choose starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon Gold for a creamy texture.
• Sweet Potatoes:Sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness and a vibrant orange color to the soup. Dice them into small pieces for even cooking.

Cooking Techniques

The slow cooker is your best friend when it comes to preparing this hearty and flavorful soup. It allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish.

Preparing Ingredients

Proper ingredient preparation is key to achieving the desired consistency and flavor in your split pea soup.

My slow cooker split pea soup with bacon and hash browns is a hearty and comforting meal. The smoky bacon flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy split peas, and the crispy hash browns add a delightful textural contrast. For a sweet and savory twist, I sometimes drizzle a bit of maple whiskey bbq sauce on top, which adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.

It’s a simple recipe that always hits the spot on a chilly day.

• Dice the bacon:Cutting the bacon into small pieces helps it cook evenly and release its flavor throughout the soup. This also prevents large chunks of bacon from dominating the texture of the soup.
• Chop the onion and celery:Finely chopping these vegetables allows them to release their flavor more readily during the cooking process.
• Dice the potatoes:Similar to the bacon, dicing the potatoes into smaller pieces helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from becoming too mushy.
• Wash and sort the split peas:Make sure to rinse the split peas thoroughly to remove any debris or impurities. Removing any damaged or discolored peas will help to ensure a smoother, more flavorful soup.
• Shred the hash browns:Using pre-shredded hash browns is perfectly fine, but if you are using fresh potatoes, make sure to shred them into fine strands. This will allow them to cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

Cooking the Soup, Slow cooker split pea soup with bacon and hash browns

• Sauté the bacon:Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup.
• Add the vegetables:Once the bacon is cooked, add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and sauté until softened. This step further enhances the flavor of the soup.
• Combine the ingredients:Transfer the bacon, onion, and celery mixture to the slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, split peas, broth, water, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.
• Cook on low heat:Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
• Add the hash browns:During the last hour of cooking, add the shredded hash browns to the soup. This allows them to cook through without becoming too mushy.
• Season and serve:Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Split pea soup with bacon and hash browns is a hearty and satisfying meal, but it can be even more enjoyable when paired with the right accompaniments. From crusty bread to refreshing salads, there are many options to complement this flavorful soup.

Bread and Crackers

Choosing the right bread or crackers can elevate your split pea soup experience. Here are some suggestions:

• Crusty Bread:A classic pairing, crusty bread provides a delightful contrast in texture and a surface for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Sourdough Bread:The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the richness of the bacon and the earthy notes of the split peas.
• Rye Bread:Rye bread offers a hearty and slightly sweet flavor that balances the savory soup.
• Crackers:For a lighter option, serve your soup with whole-grain crackers or multi-grain crackers.

Salads

A fresh salad can add a burst of color and flavor to your meal. Here are some salad suggestions:

• Green Salad:A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty soup.
• Coleslaw:A creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing offers a welcome textural contrast.
• Tomato Salad:A classic tomato salad with fresh basil and balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Complementary Side Dishes

Side dishes can enhance your split pea soup experience by providing additional flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions:

• Cornbread:The sweetness of cornbread pairs well with the savory flavors of the soup.
• Coleslaw:A creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing offers a welcome textural contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables:Roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts add depth and complexity to the meal.

Toppings

Adding toppings to your split pea soup can enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some topping suggestions:

Nutritional Information

This hearty soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s delve into the nutritional breakdown and the health benefits of its key ingredients.

Nutritional Breakdown

A serving of split pea soup with bacon and hash browns provides approximately:

• Calories: 300-400 (depending on the amount of bacon and hash browns used)
• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams

Health Benefits

• Split Peas: Split peas are an excellent source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They are also rich in protein, iron, and folate, which are essential for overall health and well-being.
• Bacon: Bacon is a source of protein and iron, but it is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Moderation is key when consuming bacon.
• Hash Browns: Hash browns are a source of carbohydrates and vitamin C. However, they are often fried, which increases their calorie and fat content.

Dietary Modifications

• Vegetarian: To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can enhance the flavor by adding additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or onions.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that the broth and other ingredients used are gluten-free.

History and Culture

Split pea soup, a humble yet hearty dish, has a rich history spanning centuries and continents. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, and its popularity has endured through the ages, making it a staple in various cultures around the world.

Origins and Early History

Split pea soup has its roots in ancient civilizations, where peas were a readily available and nutritious food source. Evidence suggests that peas were cultivated as early as 7000 BC in the Middle East. In ancient Egypt, peas were a common ingredient in soups and stews, and their cultivation spread to other parts of the world, including Europe.

Cultural Significance

Split pea soup has held a significant place in the culinary traditions of many cultures:

• Europe:In Europe, split pea soup has been a popular dish for centuries. It is particularly common in countries like Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic, where it is often served with sausage or smoked meat. In France, a variation called “soupe de pois cassés” is a traditional dish.

• North America:Split pea soup is a beloved dish in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. It is often associated with comfort food and is typically served with crusty bread or cornbread.
• India:In India, a variation of split pea soup called “dal” is a staple food. It is made with yellow split peas and often includes spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander.

Evolution of the Recipe

Over time, split pea soup recipes have evolved to reflect the culinary traditions and ingredients available in different regions.

• Medieval Europe:Medieval European recipes for split pea soup often included ingredients like barley, onions, and herbs.
• Renaissance Europe:During the Renaissance, split pea soup recipes began to incorporate more spices, such as pepper and nutmeg.
• Modern Times:Modern split pea soup recipes often include ingredients like bacon, ham, or sausage, adding a savory and smoky flavor.