In the world of cozy, comfort foods, few dishes can wrap you in a warm hug quite like Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil. Imagine a creamy, luscious bowl brimming with vibrant green hues and delightful textures that dance on your palate. The nutty crunch of almonds pairs beautifully with tender sugar snap peas, while zesty lemon basil gives it a refreshing twist. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re at a gourmet restaurant without ever needing to leave your kitchen.
I have fond memories of making this porridge on rainy days when the world outside looked dreary and gray. As the comforting aroma filled my home, my friends would crowd into the kitchen, drawn by the irresistible scent wafting through the air. This delightful dish is perfect for everything from brunch gatherings to quiet evenings in, promising an explosion of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil
- This incredible Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Whenever I whip up this dish, my friends rave about how it tastes like pure sunshine in a bowl.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green Split Peas: Opt for high-quality split peas; they should be vibrant green and free from blemishes.
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Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth adds depth; store-bought works too—just choose low-sodium for control.
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Almonds: Use slivered or chopped almonds for texture; toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.
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Sugar Snap Peas: Fresh sugar snap peas offer a sweet crunch; look for bright green ones without blemishes.
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Lemon Basil: A fragrant herb that brightens up the dish; if unavailable, regular basil works as well.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile; use minced garlic cloves for best results.
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Onion: Sweet onions bring sweetness; yellow onions can also work wonders in this recipe.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté; it adds richness and enhances flavors beautifully.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; don’t be shy—these enhance all other flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it shimmer before tossing in diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and release their sweet aroma.
Add Split Peas & Broth**: Stir in rinsed green split peas along with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Simmer Until Tender**: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes or until split peas are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally to check consistency.
Add Sugar Snap Peas**: Once the split peas are soft and thickened, stir in fresh sugar snap peas. Allow them to cook for an additional 5 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp.
Season & Garnish**: Remove from heat and season generously with salt and pepper. Top each serving with toasted almonds and chopped lemon basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful porridge that brings warmth not just from its temperature but from its heartwarming flavors!
Content: Keep your split peas soaked for at least two hours; this enhances flavor and reduces cooking time. I learned this the hard way when I tried to rush dinner.
Watch the seasoning! Adjust salt gradually during cooking; it’s easier to add than to take away. My first attempt had me scrambling for extra broth after over-salting.
Garnish generously with lemon basil and almonds before serving; it adds a delightful crunch and freshness. Trust me, this is a game-changer that even my picky cousin loved.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the perfect Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil, start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Next, add your split peas along with vegetable broth and bring everything to a simmer. While that bubbles away, toss in sugar snap peas towards the end of cooking for a tender-crisp bite. Finally, stir in lemon basil right before serving for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your porridge! You can swap out sugar snap peas for kale or spinach if you prefer more greens. Want a kick? Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating coconut milk for a creamy twist that pairs beautifully with the lemon basil.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat while adding a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving it too long; nobody wants rubbery porridge!
Chef's Helpful Tips for Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil
- This professional-quality Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Cooking this dish reminds me of when I served it at a family gathering; everyone raved about how comforting yet sophisticated it was.
FAQ
What can I substitute if I don’t have sugar snap peas?
If you can’t find sugar snap peas, feel free to use regular green peas or even diced zucchini as substitutes. They provide similar sweetness and texture without compromising the overall flavor profile of your Split Pea Porridge.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly! Just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based, avoiding any chicken or beef variations. You can also enrich the porridge with additional vegetables or legumes for extra nutrition.
Can I freeze Split Pea Porridge with Almonds?
Yes! Portion out your porridge into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion as it freezes. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat until warmed through.
How long does it take to cook split peas?
Typically, split peas take about 30-40 minutes to cook through once added to boiling liquid. However, soaking them beforehand can significantly reduce cooking time while enhancing their flavor profile.
Conclusion for Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil
In summary, crafting delicious Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil requires simple yet thoughtful steps that enhance both flavor and texture. By soaking your split peas ahead of time and experimenting with ingredient swaps, you create a dish that’s not only nutritious but also pleasing to the eye. So gather your ingredients and give this delightful porridge a try; you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil
Indulge in a warm bowl of Split Pea Porridge with Almonds, Sugar Snap Peas, and Lemon Basil—a comforting dish that offers a delightful blend of creamy texture and vibrant flavors. This gourmet-inspired recipe features nutty almonds, tender sugar snap peas, and aromatic lemon basil to elevate your dining experience right at home. Perfect for brunch or cozy dinners, this porridge is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Contemporary
Ingredients
- 1 cup green split peas
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
- ½ cup slivered almonds (toasted)
- 1 cup fresh sugar snap peas (trimmed)
- ¼ cup lemon basil leaves (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent.
- Stir in rinsed split peas and vegetable broth; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until split peas are tender and creamy.
- Add sugar snap peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until bright green but crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish each serving with toasted almonds and chopped lemon basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Soak split peas for at least two hours prior to cooking to enhance flavor and reduce cooking time.
