Soup is the Word
A new soup recipe is always a cause for celebration in our house. It’s cold, we just got our first snowfall of the season, and “soup” is the word. I stumbled across a recipe for this lovely pea soup online. The original author is Lisa Turner. As usual I tinkered with it a bit, and here is my adaptation.First a bit of background; this soup hails from Iraq and Iran and is considered an Ash, meaning a thick comforting soup ( it can stand on its own as a meal). If you like a thinner soup, you can always add more broth or water. The flavors are savory with a bit of a kick and the pomegranate seeds give it a sweet and tart burst in your mouth. I always say fresh herbs make everything better, and this dish is loaded with them. We feasted on this recipe for several days, adding a dark, hearty bread. You may also want to add a fresh spinach salad. It’s quite simple and so satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 crushed garlic clove
- 1 cup green split peas or any type of lentils (rinsed)
- 1 tsp. fennel seeds (lightly crush them to bring out the flavor)
- 1 tsp. turmeric
- ¼ tsp. cinnamon
- ¼ tsp. cayenne
- 6 cups of stock or water
- ½ cup rinsed white rice
- ¼ balsamic vinegar (or pomegranate molasses)
- Big handful of fresh mint (chopped)
- Big handful of fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- Swirl olive oil in a big pot on medium heat. Add the onions, then the garlic. After a few minutes, add the peas and let it cook for a couple more minutes.
- Put in the fennel, turmeric, cinnamon and cayenne. Stir it all up.
- Pour in the stock or water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook on low until the peas are tender.
- Add the rice, (make sure you rinse it first) cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes. Add the fresh herbs and balsamic vinegar. I used pomegranate flavored vinegar, the original recipe calls for pomegranate molasses which you can find at Middle Eastern groceries.
- Take the pot off the heat and season with salt and pepper. Once you put the soup into bowls, then add the final touch- a small handful of fresh pomegranate seeds.
Now all you need is a roaring fire, a loved one or two gathered around, and you are all set.
===================================================================We are also here to help! If you’re ready for support or want more information on healthy winter soups, drop us an email or give us a call at 877-293-9355 ext. 0!
– KELLEY COLIHAN ROBERTSON, E-RYT
Health Advisor | Email Kelley
