Create Your Own Soup feat. Split Peas

January’s cold weather is the perfect time of year for a delicious bowl of soup! You can make your own by following along here with the first recipe on our 2025 calendar or by watching the video below!


Ingredients:
Serves 4-6

  • Whole Grains 1 1/2 cups cooked (choose one)
    • Brown rice
    • Whole wheat pasta
    • Barley or quinoa
    • Couscous
  • Vegetables up to 2 cups, chopped (mix and match any vegetable)
    • Tomatoes
    • Onions
    • Carrots
    • Leafy greens (spinach, kale, cabbage)
    • Bell peppers
  • Split Peas 1 cup, cooked
  • Protein 1 pound (cut into bite-sized pieces, if desired)
    • Other beans or lentils (cooked or canned, drained, and rinsed)
    • Beef (shoulder, round, brisket, or ground)
    • Chicken or turkey (leg or thigh; boneless, skinless)
    • Pork (shoulder, butt)
  • Liquid 4 cups (choose one)
    • Water
    • Low-sodium broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
    • Low-sodium tomato juice

Instructions:

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. If using grains, cook according to package directions.
  3. If using meat, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pot on medium-high. Sauté the meat until lightly browned. If not using meat and using split peas or any other bean or lentils instead, skip this step.
  4. If using canned vegetables, add to a colander and rinse thoroughly.
  5. Add the vegetables. Lower the heat and sauté for 5 minutes. If you use frozen, canned or thawed vegetables, skip this step and add the vegetables in step 6.
  6. Add the liquid and frozen/canned vegetables (if using) and boil. Let cook for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  7. Turn off the heat. Add the cooked grain.
  8. If using cooked beans/lentils, add them to the soup mixture. Mix well and serve warm.