Benefits of Soup!

                                                                 Split Pea Soup--"Yum"

When you are eating healthy it can be difficult to find foods that satisfy you and keep you full.  Soups and stews are a great addition to your healthy eating habits and weight loss.  Vegetables have so much flavor and nutrients.  Many vegetables are better for you when cooked as they release more nutrition.  When making soup with vegetables the nutrition released during simmering remains in the liquid or broth.

When making soup you can become very creative and enjoy vegetables you like. Another benefit of making your own soup is that you control the ingredients to include the salt content.  Sometimes you will even eat some vegetables that are not your favorites when included in soup or stew.

When you are making soup be careful to purchase low sodium broth. If you have time you can also make you own broth however the store brands are just as good and don't require all the work.  You can also buy broth made from organic chickens and that is also a plus. 

Above I have included a picture of my homemade slip pea soup.  This is a thick and hearty soup that will give you the nutritional benefits of several vegetables to include peas, potatoes, carrots, onions along with garlic and parsley.  Below is the recipe.  It takes about one hour and fifteen minutes to prepare but is well worth the wait.  It is easy and makes a large pot.  You can store in the frig for about 3 or 4 days and then freeze what you don't eat.

Split Pea Soup
1/8 cup olive oil
1/2 medium onion( diced)
1 teaspoon of crushed garlic (I use crushed garlic from a jar)
salt/pepper to flavor
1 teaspoon parsley-fresh chopped or flakes
3 medium carrots (diced small)
3 small potatoes(prefer red- diced small)
1 bag (16 ounces or 2 cups) dried split peas
1 (32 ounces) of chicken broth(be sure to buy low or reduced sodium)
4 cups water
2 strips of bacon(remove all fat and chop meat into very small pieces)

Combine in a large 4 quart pot, olive oil, diced onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley.  Cook until onions are clear about 10 minutes.   Add diced carrots, potatoes, chicken broth, 4 cups water, and 1/2 bag (1cup) of dried split peas(no need to soak dried peas just rinse and add), chopped bacon bits. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 40 minutes.  Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.  After 40 minutes add remaining dried split peas (1cup) and simmer an additional 40 minutes.  During the last 40 minutes the soup will tend to thicken.  Be sure to stir frequently to keep solids from sticking to the bottom.  Serve hot and enjoy!!!

As I try new recipes I will pass them on to you.  Soup is a great way to eat your vegetables.