Split pea soup is a comforting and nutritious meal option that can be enjoyed throughout the year. This delicious and filling soup is made from split peas, vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. However, the question remains: what goes well with split pea soup for dinner? In this article, we will explore the various options that can complement the flavors and textures of split pea soup, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Understanding the Flavor Profile of Split Pea Soup
Before we dive into the options that go well with split pea soup, it’s essential to understand the flavor profile of this delicious soup. Split pea soup has a rich, earthy flavor from the split peas, which are made from dried peas that have been split in half. The soup also has a slightly sweet and smoky flavor from the vegetables and spices used in its preparation. The flavor profile of split pea soup can be described as:
- Earthy and rich from the split peas
- Slightly sweet from the vegetables
- Smoky from the spices and aromatics
- Comforting and warming from the slow-cooked broth
Choosing the Right Bread for Split Pea Soup
Bread is a classic accompaniment to soup, and split pea soup is no exception. The right bread can help to soak up the flavorful broth and add texture to the meal. Here are some bread options that go well with split pea soup:
- Crusty bread: A crusty bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, can provide a nice textural contrast to the smooth soup. Simply slice the bread, toast it, and serve it on the side.
- Whole grain bread: A whole grain bread, such as whole wheat or rye, can add fiber and nutrients to the meal. Look for a bread that is dense and chewy, with a slightly sweet flavor.
- Garlic bread: Garlic bread is a classic combination with soup, and split pea soup is no exception. Simply butter slices of bread, sprinkle with minced garlic, and bake until crispy.
Other Options for Dipping into Split Pea Soup
In addition to bread, there are other options that can be used for dipping into split pea soup. Here are a few ideas:
- Crostini: Crostini are small slices of bread that are toasted or grilled until crispy. They can be topped with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, herbs, or spices, to add flavor to the soup.
- Crackers: Crackers, such as saltines or oyster crackers, can provide a satisfying crunch to the meal. Look for crackers that are low in sodium and made with wholesome ingredients.
- Crudités: Crudités, such as carrot sticks or celery sticks, can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Simply serve the crudités on the side, with a dollop of hummus or ranch dressing for dipping.
Adding Some Crunch to the Meal
In addition to bread and dipping options, there are other ways to add crunch to the meal. Here are a few ideas:
- Salad: A simple green salad, made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, can add a satisfying crunch to the meal. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and crispy.
- Croutons: Croutons, made from bread or crackers, can add a satisfying crunch to the soup. Simply cube the bread or crackers, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until crispy.
Protein Options to Pair with Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup can be a filling and satisfying meal on its own, but adding some protein can make it even more substantial. Here are some protein options that pair well with split pea soup:
- Grilled chicken: Grilled chicken, seasoned with herbs and spices, can add a nice smoky flavor to the meal. Simply grill the chicken until cooked through, then slice and serve on top of the soup.
- Bacon: Bacon, crumbled or diced, can add a smoky and savory flavor to the soup. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble or dice and add to the soup.
- Ham: Ham, diced or sliced, can add a salty and savory flavor to the soup. Simply cook the ham until heated through, then add to the soup.
Other Protein Options to Consider
In addition to grilled chicken, bacon, and ham, there are other protein options that can pair well with split pea soup. Here are a few ideas:
- Sausages: Sausages, such as kielbasa or chorizo, can add a spicy and savory flavor to the soup. Simply cook the sausages until browned, then slice and add to the soup.
- Meatballs: Meatballs, made from beef or pork, can add a hearty and comforting element to the meal. Simply cook the meatballs until browned, then add to the soup.
- Tofu: Tofu, marinated and baked, can add a protein-rich element to the meal. Simply marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce and herbs, then bake until golden and crispy.
Making it a Meal: Combining Split Pea Soup with Other Dishes
Split pea soup can be a filling and satisfying meal on its own, but combining it with other dishes can make it even more substantial. Here are some ideas for combining split pea soup with other dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich: A grilled cheese sandwich, made with melted cheese and toasted bread, can provide a comforting and indulgent element to the meal. Simply grill the sandwich until crispy and melted, then serve on the side.
- Roasted potatoes: Roasted potatoes, tossed with olive oil and herbs, can add a satisfying and filling element to the meal. Simply roast the potatoes in the oven until tender and crispy.
- Garlic knots: Garlic knots, made from pizza dough and topped with garlic butter, can provide a fun and indulgent element to the meal. Simply bake the knots until golden and crispy, then serve on the side.
Conclusion
Split pea soup is a delicious and comforting meal option that can be enjoyed throughout the year. By combining it with the right bread, dipping options, protein sources, and other dishes, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, split pea soup is a great choice. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of split pea soup tonight!
What are some popular side dishes that go well with split pea soup?
Split pea soup is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Some popular options include crusty bread, crackers, or croutons, which can be used to scoop up the flavorful broth. Additionally, a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, comforting soup.
For a more substantial side dish, consider pairing the split pea soup with a protein source like grilled chicken, bacon, or ham. These options can add a satisfying element to the meal and help to round out the flavors. Alternatively, a side of rice, quinoa, or other whole grains can provide a nutritious and filling complement to the soup.
Can I serve split pea soup as a main course?
While split pea soup can be a satisfying and filling meal on its own, it is often served as a starter or side dish. However, with the addition of some protein sources and whole grains, it can easily be elevated to a main course. Consider adding some diced ham, bacon, or chicken to the soup to increase the protein content, and serve with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
If you’re looking to make the split pea soup a more substantial main course, you could also consider adding some other ingredients like diced vegetables, beans, or grains. This can help to increase the calorie and nutrient content of the meal, making it more suitable as a main course. Additionally, serving the soup with a side of whole grain crackers or croutons can provide a satisfying crunch and help to round out the meal.
What are some good options for bread to serve with split pea soup?
When it comes to serving bread with split pea soup, there are many options to choose from. Crusty breads like baguette or ciabatta are popular choices, as they can be used to scoop up the flavorful broth. Alternatively, a hearty whole grain bread like whole wheat or rye can provide a nutritious and filling complement to the soup.
For a more indulgent option, consider serving the split pea soup with a side of garlic bread or cheesy bread. These options can add a rich and satisfying element to the meal, and can help to balance out the flavors of the soup. Additionally, serving the bread on the side can allow each person to customize their meal to their liking, adding as much or as little bread as they prefer.
Can I add meat to split pea soup to make it more substantial?
Yes, you can definitely add meat to split pea soup to make it more substantial. In fact, many traditional recipes for split pea soup include diced ham or bacon, which can add a rich and savory flavor to the dish. Other options for adding meat to the soup include diced chicken, beef, or pork, which can be browned and added to the pot along with the vegetables and peas.
When adding meat to the split pea soup, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. If using raw meat, you’ll want to cook it until it’s fully browned and cooked through before adding the peas and broth. If using pre-cooked meat, you can simply add it to the pot along with the other ingredients and simmer until the flavors have melded together.
What are some good options for salads to serve with split pea soup?
A simple green salad is a classic choice to serve with split pea soup, as it provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and comforting soup. However, there are many other options for salads that can complement the flavors of the soup. Consider a spinach salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette, or a more substantial grain salad with roasted vegetables and a tangy dressing.
When choosing a salad to serve with split pea soup, consider the flavors and textures you want to include. A light and refreshing salad can help to cut the richness of the soup, while a more substantial salad can provide a satisfying contrast. Additionally, be sure to choose ingredients that complement the flavors of the soup, such as herbs and spices that are commonly used in the recipe.
Can I serve split pea soup with rice or other grains?
Yes, you can definitely serve split pea soup with rice or other grains. In fact, many traditional recipes for split pea soup include a side of rice or bread to help soak up the flavorful broth. Other options for grains that can be served with split pea soup include quinoa, barley, or farro, which can provide a nutritious and filling complement to the meal.
When serving split pea soup with rice or other grains, consider the cooking method and timing. If using a raw grain, you’ll want to cook it according to the package instructions before serving. If using a pre-cooked grain, you can simply heat it up and serve it alongside the soup. Additionally, be sure to choose a grain that complements the flavors of the soup, such as a flavorful rice or a nutty whole grain.
What are some good options for desserts to serve after split pea soup?
When it comes to serving dessert after split pea soup, there are many options to choose from. A classic choice is a warm and comforting dessert like apple crisp or bread pudding, which can help to round out the meal. Alternatively, a lighter and fresher dessert like a fruit salad or a sorbet can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory soup.
Consider the flavors and textures you want to include in the dessert, and choose ingredients that complement the flavors of the soup. For example, a dessert with a hint of spice or herbs can help to tie the meal together, while a sweet and indulgent dessert can provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal. Additionally, be sure to choose a dessert that is easy to serve and enjoy, such as a simple fruit salad or a warm and comforting cobbler.