SPLIT PEA and CHARD SOUP

images SERVES 4

The U.S. Pacific Northwest grows some of the finest split peas, lentils, and garbanzos I’ve ever eaten. I keep the dried legumes in clear Mason jars in my pantry so I get inspired to cook and eat them often. I love me a good split pea soup, but I’m not crazy about the drab green color. So I blend in some fresh green chard at the end for a bright pop of green color and some extra plant-powered punch. Use this technique to brighten up any drab-looking green puree. P.S.: This soup is gluten-free and hearty as heck! —DEREK

1 cup split green peas, preferably non-GMO

6 cups Vegetable Stock (here)

1 cup diced Yukon gold potatoes, skin on is fine

½ cup diced onion

½ cup diced carrot

½ cup diced celery

7 cloves garlic, minced

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

½ teaspoon granulated onion

2 large green chard leaves

image Soak the split peas in water to cover overnight. Drain and place in a slow cooker (or see Pro Tip). Add everything else except the chard and cook on the low setting for 4 to 6 hours.

image Rinse the chard leaves, then remove the leaves from the stems. (It’s easiest to just cut along the length of both sides of the stem to remove the leaves.)

image Remove the soup from the heat and discard the bay leaf. Add the chard leaves to the soup. Let cool until barely warm, at least 20 minutes, before blending. Then use an immersion blender or stand blender to blend in the chard real good and make the soup bright green. (If using a stand blender, remove the center lid to allow steam to escape and cover the hole with a folded paper towel.)

Pro Tip

To make this soup on the stovetop, combine the soaked split peas and everything else except the chard in a large soup pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cut the heat to low and simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours, stirring often.

OPTIONS

Garnishing ideas:

image Mexican chipotle sausage from Field Roast, crumbled and cooked

image Diced and roasted onions, carrots, and celery

image Fresh pea pods

image Cashew Sour Cream (here)