Goya Pea Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Healthy Delight 🍲🌱
Introduction
If you’re craving a warm, delicious, and nutritious meal, Goya Pea Soup is the perfect choice! This comforting soup is made with split peas, vegetables, and spices that blend together to create a dish that is both hearty and healthy. Known for its rich flavor and smooth texture, Goya Pea Soup is a popular dish in many homes. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy evening, this soup is sure to keep you full and satisfied. 🍽️💚
In this blog, we’ll walk you through a simple, step-by-step Goya Pea Soup recipe, explore the nutritional value of split peas, and answer some frequently asked questions about this tasty dish. You’ll also discover how this soup is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients! Let’s get started. 🌟
What Is Goya Pea Soup? 🍲
Goya Pea Soup is a classic dish made with split peas, vegetables, and a variety of spices. The star of the soup is the split pea, which is a type of dried legume. When cooked, split peas break down and create a creamy, hearty base for the soup. Some versions of the soup include ham or ham hocks for added flavor, while others keep it vegetarian.
The soup is easy to prepare, rich in protein and fiber, and can be made in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stovetop. Whether you prefer it smooth and creamy or chunky, Goya Pea Soup is incredibly customizable. It’s not just satisfying, but it also provides essential nutrients that make it a healthy meal option. 🌱
The History of Goya Pea Soup 🌍
The name “Goya” in the context of this soup likely comes from Goya Foods, a popular brand that produces various canned goods and food products, including split peas. The company, founded in 1936, has become a household name in many parts of the world, especially in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. Goya’s version of pea soup has gained popularity due to its convenience and taste, but the dish itself has roots in traditional European soups and Caribbean cuisine.
Many cultures have versions of pea soup, especially in colder climates where it was considered a comfort food to warm up after a long day. Goya Pea Soup has become a staple in many households, thanks to its rich flavor, affordable ingredients, and easy preparation. 🇬🇧🇪🇸
The Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒
To make this delicious Goya Pea Soup, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (16 oz) dried Goya split peas (green or yellow)
- 6 cups water (or low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 lb ham hock or smoked ham bone (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and chopped (for added thickness)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for extra color and flavor)
Step-by-Step Goya Pea Soup Recipe 🥄
1. Prepare the Split Peas:
Start by rinsing the split peas thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris. This step ensures that your soup will be smooth and free of any impurities. Set the peas aside after rinsing. 🌊
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become tender. The onions should become translucent, and the carrots and celery should soften. 🥕🧅
3. Add the Garlic and Spices:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, add the bay leaf, dried thyme, ground cumin, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices. 🌿
4. Add the Split Peas and Liquid:
Add the rinsed split peas into the pot and stir them with the vegetables and spices. Then, pour in 6 cups of water (or low-sodium broth for more flavor). Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low to simmer the soup. 🫣
5. Simmer the Soup:
Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The split peas will soften and begin to break down, thickening the soup. If you’re using a ham hock or smoked ham bone, add it to the pot now. These will infuse the soup with a rich, savory flavor. 🐖
6. Blend (Optional):
Once the split peas are fully cooked and the soup has thickened, you can choose to blend the soup for a smooth, creamy texture. Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step. 🥄
7. Final Seasoning:
Once the soup has reached your desired texture, taste it and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. If you used a ham bone, you can remove it now and shred the meat before returning it to the soup. 🌿
8. Serve the Soup:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley (optional). Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting goodness of Goya Pea Soup! 🍲
Nutritional Value of Goya Pea Soup 🍽️
Goya Pea Soup is not only delicious but also a nutritious meal. Let’s break down the nutritional value of a serving of Goya Pea Soup, using the ingredients provided in the recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 Cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 13g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 15g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 120% of daily value |
| Vitamin C | 20% of daily value |
| Iron | 10% of daily value |
| Potassium | 500mg |
As shown in the table, this soup is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, particularly Vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. The soup is also a good source of iron and potassium, which help maintain a healthy immune system and regulate blood pressure. 🌱
Health Benefits of Goya Pea Soup 🥗
- Rich in Fiber: Goya Pea Soup is high in fiber, which helps maintain a healthy digestive system and keeps you feeling full for longer. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels and cholesterol. 🍞
- High in Protein: The split peas in this soup are a great source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. 💪
- Low in Fat: This soup is naturally low in fat, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. 🥒
- Packed with Nutrients: Goya Pea Soup provides essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron, and Potassium, which are important for immune function, skin health, and bone strength. 🥦
FAQs About Goya Pea Soup 🍲
1. Can I make Goya Pea Soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can make this soup completely vegetarian by omitting the ham hock or smoked ham bone. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of Goya Pea Soup. 🌱
2. How can I store Goya Pea Soup?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool the soup before storing it. 🍲❄️
3. Can I add other vegetables to Goya Pea Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, potatoes, or tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! 🥬🍅
4. Is this soup suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, Goya Pea Soup can be adapted for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Just ensure you’re using gluten-free broth and non-dairy substitutes if needed. 🌱🍽️
5. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you like your soup thicker, you can blend a portion of the soup after it’s cooked or add mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra creaminess. 🥔
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Goya Pea Soup 🍲
Goya Pea Soup is not only a comforting dish but also a nutritious and easy-to-make meal that fits into any diet. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this soup is sure to please everyone. With its rich flavors, health benefits, and customizable options, Goya Pea Soup is a must-try for anyone who loves a good, hearty meal. 🥄🍽️
So, the next time you’re looking for something filling and wholesome, give Goya Pea Soup a try. It’s simple, delicious, and packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling great all day long. Bon appétit!