Hearty Finnish Split Pea Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) dried green or yellow split peas 2 cups (400g) dried green or yellow split peas
• 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 lb/450g) 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 lb/450g)
• 1 onion, chopped 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 8 cups (1.9 liters) water 8 cups (1.9 liters) water
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Finnish mustard, for serving Finnish mustard, for serving
• Freshly baked rye bread, for serving Freshly baked rye bread, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 15g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the split peas under cold water and drain.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, combine the split peas, ham hock, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and water.
3. 3.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
4. 4.
   Remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat. Discard the bone and fat.
5. 5.
   Return the shredded ham to the pot and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Serve the Finnish Split Pea Soup hot, garnished with a dollop of Finnish mustard, and accompanied by freshly baked rye bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Split peas — Rinse the split peas thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
• Ham hock — Choose a smoked ham hock for a rich and smoky flavor in the soup.
• Finnish mustard — Look for Finnish mustard in specialty stores or online to experience the authentic flavor of Hernekeitto.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of water for a flavorful base.
• Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the soup.
• Serve the soup with a side of pickled vegetables for added tanginess.
• Leftover soup can be frozen and reheated for future meals.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water or broth if desired.

Serving advice

Serve the Finnish Split Pea Soup hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Accompany it with freshly baked rye bread and a dollop of tangy Finnish mustard for an authentic Finnish experience.

Presentation advice

Present the Finnish Split Pea Soup in deep bowls, showcasing its vibrant green color. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.