Split peas: A budget-friendly solution for a quick and delicious soup
I have always kept a variety of dried beans in the pantry. These are not just for emergencies but a ridiculously economical meal option. My problem is that occasionally, I don't plan ahead. Even the quick soak method takes some forethought.
Split peas, however, can be made reasonably quickly. They're a wonderful and frequent go-to item, and they're delicious. While I more often than not use them in soups, they are also a fast side dish.
Split peas are perfectly named because they are specifically grown to be dried and halved. By splitting them in two, you have a nearly instant dried pea that can be soaked if you want, but it isn't necessary.
Rondo is the variety of pea routinely grown for split peas. Just like regular peas, they are harvested during the summer months and then stripped clean of the cellulose skins that surround them. After stripping, they are cut in half along the natural seam of the pea and then dried.
Green is the most common and least expensive color of split peas. There are also yellow split peas available. Both are energy powerhouses and have a nice, long shelf life due to the lack of moisture. I transfer mine to a canning jar so the bag doesn't get lost in the pantry, plus I can see the amount I have at a glance.
When serving as a side dish, I add a peeled carrot and either an onion or leek to the cooking liquid, typically stock. I discard the flavoring agents when the peas are drained, then just add butter, salt and pepper before serving. And even with spring arriving, I still enjoy making split pea soup to knock off the chill of the evening.
Roger of Chattanooga asks, 'My mother has several notations in her meal planning book referring to moscovites. Can you help me with this?'
Roger,
These are molded desserts that are creamy and contain fruit. Think of Bavarian cream. It is sometimes served on top of chilled sponge cake that has been soaked in cherry brandy.
Tammy Algood is the author of five cookbooks and can be seen on 'Volunteer Gardener' on PBS stations in Tennessee. Follow her at www.hauteflavor.com
This article originally appeared on Southern Kitchen: Split peas: A budget-friendly solution for a quick and delicious soup
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