Pulled Pork Split Pea Soup: A Flavorful Fusion of Comfort and BBQ
Craving a bowl of heartwarming soup that’s both familiar and excitingly different? Look no further than this Pulled Pork Split Pea Soup recipe. It’s a fantastic way to transform leftover pulled pork into a comforting, smoky, and deeply satisfying meal. This recipe perfectly marries the classic, earthy flavors of split pea soup with the rich, savory goodness of barbecue pulled pork. Get ready to experience a soup that’s packed with flavor, texture, and a whole lot of comfort.
## Why Pulled Pork Split Pea Soup? The Perfect Combination
Split pea soup is a timeless comfort food, known for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. However, sometimes it can feel a bit… predictable. That’s where pulled pork comes in to elevate this classic to a whole new level. Here’s why this combination works so well:
* **Smoky Depth:** Pulled pork, especially if it’s been smoked, infuses the soup with a deep, smoky flavor that complements the earthy sweetness of the split peas perfectly.
* **Textural Contrast:** The tender, shredded pulled pork adds a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, creamy soup, making each spoonful a more interesting experience.
* **Umami Boost:** Pulled pork is packed with umami, that savory, mouthwatering flavor that makes food so satisfying. This adds a richness to the soup that’s hard to resist.
* **Leftover Transformation:** This recipe is a brilliant way to use up leftover pulled pork, preventing food waste and turning a delicious meal into another equally delicious one.
* **Year-Round Appeal:** While soup is often associated with colder months, the smoky and savory notes of this pulled pork split pea soup make it enjoyable even in warmer weather. Think of it as a lighter, more refreshing take on barbecue.
## Ingredients: What You’ll Need
This recipe is relatively straightforward and uses common ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
* **1 pound dried green split peas:** The foundation of our soup. Ensure they are fresh for best flavor and cooking time.
* **8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option):** Provides the liquid base for the soup. Chicken broth adds richness, while vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian.
* **1-2 cups pulled pork (cooked and shredded):** The star of the show! Use your favorite pulled pork recipe or store-bought.
* **1 large onion, chopped:** Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
* **2 carrots, chopped:** Adds sweetness, color, and nutrients.
* **2 celery stalks, chopped:** Adds a savory, slightly peppery flavor.
* **2-3 cloves garlic, minced:** Essential for aromatic flavor.
* **1 teaspoon dried thyme:** Adds an earthy, herbaceous note.
* **1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika:** Enhances the smoky flavor of the pulled pork.
* **1 bay leaf:** Adds a subtle, complex flavor. Remember to remove it before serving.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Adjust according to your preference.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil):** For sautéing the vegetables.
* **Optional garnishes:** Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
## Equipment: What You’ll Need
* **Large pot or Dutch oven:** Essential for cooking the soup.
* **Cutting board and knife:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Ladle:** For serving the soup.
## Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
Now for the fun part: bringing all these delicious ingredients together to create a truly exceptional soup. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect pulled pork split pea soup:
**Step 1: Rinse the Split Peas**
Place the dried split peas in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This helps remove any debris and ensures a cleaner flavor. While some older recipes call for soaking split peas, it’s generally not necessary with modern varieties. However, if you have the time, soaking them for a few hours can slightly reduce the cooking time.
**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. This step helps to release their flavors and create a flavorful base for the soup. Be careful not to brown the vegetables too much.
**Step 3: Add the Garlic and Spices**
Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. This brief cooking time helps to bloom the spices, intensifying their flavor.
**Step 4: Combine Ingredients**
Add the rinsed split peas, chicken broth (or vegetable broth), and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
**Step 5: Bring to a Boil and Simmer**
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender and have broken down into a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
**Step 6: Add the Pulled Pork**
Once the split peas are cooked, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Add the pulled pork to the soup and stir well to combine. Heat through for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the pulled pork to warm up and infuse its flavor into the soup.
**Step 7: Season and Adjust**
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember that the pulled pork may already be seasoned, so start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a touch of brightness, if desired.
**Step 8: Serve and Garnish**
Ladle the pulled pork split pea soup into bowls and garnish as desired. Some suggestions include fresh parsley, chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!
## Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own
This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment and customize it to your own tastes. Here are some tips and variations to inspire you:
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, or spinach, to the soup.
* **Use Different Broth:** Try using ham broth or beef broth for a different flavor profile.
* **Make it Vegetarian/Vegan:** Use vegetable broth and omit the pulled pork. You can add smoked tofu or tempeh for a smoky flavor.
* **Use a Pressure Cooker:** To speed up the cooking time, you can cook the soup in a pressure cooker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pressure cooker. Typically, you’ll need to reduce the cooking time to about 20-30 minutes.
* **Add a Ham Hock:** For a richer, more traditional split pea soup flavor, add a smoked ham hock to the pot along with the split peas and broth. Remove the ham hock before adding the pulled pork and shred any meat from the hock back into the soup.
* **Blend for a Smoother Texture:** If you prefer a completely smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup after the split peas are cooked. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
* **Thicken the Soup:** If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period of time, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
* **Make it Ahead:** This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freeze for Later:** This soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
## Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Your Soup
Pulled pork split pea soup is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides:
* **Crusty Bread:** A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
* **Grilled Cheese Sandwich:** A classic combination! The cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich complements the smoky and savory flavors of the soup.
* **Salad:** A light and refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the soup.
* **Cornbread:** Cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and a crumbly texture that contrasts nicely with the soup.
* **Coleslaw:** A creamy coleslaw can provide a cool and tangy counterpoint to the warmth of the soup.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 350-450 (depending on the amount of pulled pork and other ingredients)
* Protein: 25-35 grams
* Fat: 15-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
* Fiber: 10-15 grams
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Conclusion: A Soup to Savor
Pulled Pork Split Pea Soup is a delicious and innovative twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of smoky pulled pork and creamy split peas creates a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover pulled pork or simply craving a hearty and satisfying soup, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure culinary bliss!