Smoky Chorizo and Chipotle Pea Soup
Indulge in this hearty and smoky pea soup that beautifully melds the rich flavors of chorizo with the warm heat of chipotle peppers. Perfect for cozy evenings, this recipe allows the cozy warmth of the spices and the earthiness of split peas to create a comforting bowl of goodness. The chorizo, when sautéed, adds not just protein but an enchanting depth of flavor, while the chipotle peppers lend a delightful smokiness that elevates this dish to a whole new level. Whether you choose to blend the soup for a silky texture or leave it chunky for added bite, this versatile soup is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.
6
Servings
300
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1 tablespoon (None)
onion
1 (diced)
celery
1 (sliced)
potatoes
2 medium (diced)
carrots
2 (diced)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
oregano
1 teaspoon (None)
pepper
1/2-1 teaspoon (to taste)
bay leaf
1 (None)
chorizo sausage
1/2 lb (sliced and browned, grease discarded)
dried split peas
1 (16 ounce) package (None)
salt
to taste (None)
chipotle chiles in adobo
1-2 (diced, seeds removed if desired)
hot sauce
optional (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery, diced potatoes, and carrots, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
2
Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to blossom.
3
Add the sliced chorizo and diced chipotle chiles, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
4
Incorporate the dried split peas into the pot, then cover with water, making sure there's an extra couple of inches of water above the ingredients.
5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally, ensuring the peas do not stick to the bottom, as the soup thickens.
6
Once the peas are tender and the soup has reached your desired thickness, season to taste with hot sauce and additional black pepper.
7
For a creamy texture, you can blend the soup until smooth, leaving some sausage bits for texture, if desired.
8
Serve hot, garnishing with croutons and a few slices of chorizo to add a satisfying crunch.
Nutrition Information
13
Fat
33
Carbs
15
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smoky Chorizo and Chipotle Pea Soup?
It is a hearty and smoky pea soup that combines the flavors of chorizo, chipotle peppers, and earthy split peas for a comforting meal.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
How long should the soup simmer?
The soup should simmer for 3 to 4 hours until the peas are tender and it reaches your desired thickness.
Can I blend the soup for a different texture?
Yes, you can blend the soup until smooth for a creamy texture, or leave it chunky if you prefer more bite.
What are the primary spices used in this recipe?
The primary spices include oregano, a bay leaf, black pepper, salt, and chipotle peppers in adobo.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
What is the protein content of this soup?
Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of protein.
How much fat is in a serving of this soup?
There are 13 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 33 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
How much chorizo is needed for the recipe?
You will need 1/2 lb of chorizo sausage, sliced and browned.
How do I prepare the chorizo?
The chorizo should be sliced and browned, with the excess grease discarded before adding it to the soup.
What type of peas are used in this soup?
The recipe calls for one 16-ounce package of dried split peas.
How many chipotle chiles should be added?
You can add 1 to 2 chipotle chiles in adobo, diced with seeds removed if desired for less heat.
What vegetables are required for the base?
The base includes onion, celery, potatoes, carrots, and garlic.
What is the recommended garnish for this soup?
Garnish with croutons and a few extra slices of chorizo for added crunch and flavor.
How much olive oil is used for sautéing?
One tablespoon of olive oil is used to sauté the initial vegetables.
Do I need to add water to the soup?
Yes, you should cover the ingredients with water, ensuring there are an extra couple of inches of water above the ingredients.
Is hot sauce included in the recipe?
Hot sauce is optional and can be added at the end to taste.
When do I add the garlic to the pot?
Minced garlic is added after the initial vegetables have sautéed for about 5 minutes.
How many potatoes are used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 2 medium potatoes, diced.
What should I do if the soup gets too thick?
You can stir the soup occasionally while simmering and add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Can this soup be made vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe is tagged with a vegetarian option, which would involve omitting or replacing the chorizo.
Is the onion diced or sliced?
The onion should be diced.
How much oregano is required?
One teaspoon of oregano is used.
How many carrots are included?
The recipe calls for 2 diced carrots.
When is the bay leaf added?
The bay leaf is stirred in with the garlic and other spices before adding the liquids and peas.
Does the recipe call for salt?
Yes, salt is added both during the sautéing process and adjusted to taste at the end.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
Two minced garlic cloves are required.
Is this a good recipe for cold weather?
Absolutely, it is specifically tagged as a cold weather recipe due to its hearty and warming nature.
How should the celery be prepared?
One stalk of celery should be sliced before being added to the pot.