Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Cheddar offers a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. The smoky bacon and melted cheddar cheese add a rich depth of flavor, making this soup the ultimate cozy meal for winter nights. The creamy consistency of the split peas creates a heartwarming base that’s complemented perfectly by the crispy bacon and savory cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried split peas
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Rinse the dried split peas and add them to the pot along with the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are soft.
- For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to partially puree the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the split pea soup hot, topped with crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
This rich and hearty soup is perfect for a cold winter evening, offering comfort in every spoonful.