Split Pea Soup (milchig) Recipe

Split pea soup is a popular and comforting dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This milchig (dairy) version of the soup offers a creamy and delicious twist to the traditional recipe. Before we dive into the details of this delectable dish, let's explore a bit of history and some fun facts about split pea soup.

Split pea soup has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to ancient times. The cultivation of peas can be traced back to over 7,000 years ago, with evidence found in archaeological sites in Asia and the Middle East. Peas were highly valued for their nutritional benefits and ability to grow in a variety of climates.

During the Middle Ages, split pea soup gained popularity across Europe, particularly in countries like England and Germany. This hearty soup became a staple dish for working-class households due to its affordability and ability to provide sustenance. It was often made with dried peas that had been split in half, hence the name "split pea soup."

Fun Fact: In the United States, split pea soup gained popularity as an easy and nutritious dish during the Great Depression. Its humble ingredients and simple preparation made it a budget-friendly meal for many families during challenging times.

Now, let's get to the delicious recipe for milchig split pea soup.

Ingredients:
- 1 quart of split peas
- 1 gallon of lukewarm water
- A few potatoes
- 1 large celery root
- A small handful of fresh parsley
- A small onion
- 1 small carrot, cut into cubes
- 1 small clove of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- Cold water
- Croutons (for serving)

Instructions:
1. Begin by soaking the split peas in lukewarm water overnight. Use one quart of split peas for every gallon of water. This step helps to soften the peas and reduces cooking time.

2. After soaking, drain and rinse the split peas thoroughly.

3. In a large pot, add the soaked split peas, gallon of water, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about two hours.

4. While the split peas are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes, celery root, onion, and carrot. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.

5. Add the diced potatoes, celery root, parsley, onion, carrot cubes, and garlic to the pot with the split peas. Allow everything to simmer together for another hour or until the split peas are tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.

6. Once the soup has cooked down to half its original quantity and the ingredients are soft, remove the pot from the heat.

7. Using a colander or a food mill, strain the soup into a large bowl or another pot. This step helps to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

8. If the soup is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it with a tablespoon of flour. In a separate saucepan, mix the flour with a little cold water to create a paste. Gradually add the flour paste to the strained soup while stirring continuously. Cook the soup for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flour mixture to thicken the soup.

9. Your milchig split pea soup is now ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with croutons for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful milchig split pea soup on a cold day or whenever you're craving a hearty meal. The creamy texture and savory taste are sure to warm your soul.

Similar recipes to explore:
- Vegetarian Split Pea Soup: For a parve (non-dairy) version of split pea soup, simply omit the milk-based products like croutons and use vegetable broth instead of water. This variation is perfect for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
- Ham and Split Pea Soup: A popular variation of split pea soup is to add diced ham or bacon for an added smoky flavor. The meat is usually cooked with the split peas and vegetables, creating a delicious combination of flavors.
- Indian Spiced Split Pea Soup: Give your split pea soup an exotic twist by adding Indian spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and ginger. This variation offers a unique and aromatic flavor profile that will transport you to the streets of India.
- Curried Split Pea Soup: Another variation with an international flair is curried split pea soup. By incorporating curry powder and coconut milk, this soup takes on a rich and fragrant taste that is absolutely delightful.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to split pea soup variations. Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic milchig version or explore new flavors, split pea soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that will never disappoint.