Split Pea Smoked Turkey Soup

Smoky and Satisfying: Split Pea Smoked Turkey Soup

As the weather turns cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort and nourish the soul. Our Split Pea Smoked Turkey Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for chilly days. Made with tender smoked turkey legs, nutritious split peas, and a variety of aromatic vegetables and herbs, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Join us as we explore the recipe and learn how to make this delicious and comforting soup!

Ingredients

Meat:

  • 3 lbs smoked turkey legs

Produce:

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 1/2 cups carrots, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced

Canned Goods:

  • 1 lb dried split peas
  • 3 cups chicken broth

Liquids:

  • 5 cups water

Spices & Seasonings:

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Legs

  1. Start by removing any excess skin from the smoked turkey legs and shredding the meat. Set aside.

Step 2: Saute the Vegetables

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Herbs

  1. Stir in the garlic powder and dried oregano, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Turkey and Peas

  1. Add the shredded smoked turkey legs, diced potatoes, dried split peas, chicken broth, water, and bay leaves to the pot.
  2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaves and discard them.
  2. Ladle the warm and comforting Split Pea Smoked Turkey Soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Smoked Turkey Flavor: The smoked turkey legs add a rich and smoky flavor to the soup, but if you don’t have smoked turkey on hand, you can use regular turkey legs or even leftover roasted turkey.
  • Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup once the peas are cooked. Alternatively, you can mash some of the peas and potatoes against the side of the pot to thicken the soup naturally.
  • Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as chopped kale, spinach, or green peas, for extra nutrition and flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use other types of meat instead of smoked turkey? A: Yes, you can use other types of meat such as ham hocks, bacon, or even leftover cooked ham or turkey.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Simply follow the instructions up to step 4, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peas are tender.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Keto and Low-Carb Version

For a keto and low-carb version of this soup, you can make the following modifications:

  • Replace Potatoes: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips for a lower-carb option.
  • Reduce Peas: Use fewer split peas or replace them with green beans or broccoli for a lower-carb option.
  • Increase Protein: Add extra protein by including more shredded turkey or adding cooked bacon or sausage to the soup.

In conclusion, our Split Pea Smoked Turkey Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for warming up on cold winter days. With its hearty combination of smoked turkey, split peas, and vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a flavorful and wholesome meal, this soup is sure to please. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this delicious Split Pea Smoked Turkey Soup!