Swedish Green Split Peas With Bacon: A Hearty Winter Staple

The scent of bacon sizzling always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She wasn’t Swedish, but she had a knack for finding comfort food recipes from around the world. I remember her telling me once that good food is a universal language, and this humble dish of Swedish Green Split Peas with Bacon, with its earthy peas, smoky bacon, and hint of onion, definitely speaks volumes. It’s a dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening and a wonderful reminder of simple, heartfelt meals.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 6 hours (includes soaking time)
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: Approximately 8 cups
• Dietary Type: Not Vegetarian

Ingredients

• ½ lb bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and sliced
• 1 lb split peas, washed and soaked in 6 cups water for 6 hours (or overnight)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons (½ cube) butter

Equipment Needed

• Large frying pan or skillet
• 4 to 6 quart pot with lid
• Colander or sieve
• Wooden spoon or stirring utensil

Instructions

1. Begin by browning the bacon in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and has rendered its fat.
2. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Be sure to reserve the flavorful bacon.
3. Carefully discard all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat from the pan. The rendered bacon fat will add incredible flavor to the split peas.
4. Add the sliced yellow onion to the pan with the remaining bacon fat. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it is tender and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Drain the soaked split peas using a colander or sieve, discarding the soaking water. Soaking helps to soften the peas and reduces cooking time.
6. Transfer the drained split peas to a 4 to 6 quart pot. Add the reserved cooked bacon and the sautéed onions.
7. Add enough water to the pot to just cover the peas. Start with approximately 4-6 cups of water and add more as needed during cooking.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 1 ½ hours, or until the water is absorbed and the peas are thick and creamy.
9. Stir the split peas occasionally during cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. If the peas start to dry out before they are fully cooked, add more water, about ½ cup at a time, until they reach the desired consistency.
10. Once the split peas are cooked to a thick, creamy consistency, season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper and adjust according to your preference.
11. Finally, stir in the butter. The butter adds richness and a velvety texture to the dish. Stir until the butter is melted and fully incorporated.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the peas is crucial for shortening the cooking time and achieving a smoother texture. Don’t skip this step! If you forget to soak them overnight, a quick soak in boiling water for an hour can help.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of water during cooking. The goal is a thick, creamy consistency, so add more water as needed to prevent the peas from drying out.
• For a more intense smoky flavor, use smoked bacon.
• To make this dish even richer, add a ham hock to the pot while simmering. Remove the ham hock before serving and shred any meat from it to stir back into the peas.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the split peas after they are cooked. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
• To intensify the onion flavor, caramelize the onions for a longer period before adding them to the split peas.
• Adjust the salt carefully. Bacon can be salty, so taste as you go and add more salt gradually.
• Make it ahead! This dish tastes even better the next day. The flavors meld together beautifully.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Swedish Green Split Peas with Bacon hot as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats, sausages, or alongside corned pork roast or Swedish Sauerkraut as part of the full Swedish Winter Feast. It’s also delicious on its own as a comforting main course. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to loosen the consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave. It is best consumed within 3-4 days.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	380 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	19.2 g	29%
Saturated Fat	8 g	40%
Cholesterol	34.6 mg	11%
Sodium	286.2 mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	35.8 g	11%
Dietary Fiber	14.7 g	58%
Sugars	5.1 g	N/A
Protein	17.4 g	34%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water. Sauté some smoked paprika with the onions to add a smoky flavor. Use a plant-based butter alternative.
• Smoked Sausage: Replace the bacon with your favorite smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot for a little heat.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, bay leaf, or marjoram to add depth of flavor. Add the herbs during the simmering process and remove them before serving.
• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the split peas during the last few minutes of cooking.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
A: Yes, you can substitute yellow split peas for green split peas. The flavor will be slightly different, but the cooking process will be the same.

Q: Do I really need to soak the split peas?
A: Soaking is highly recommended as it reduces the cooking time and helps the peas cook more evenly. If you’re short on time, a quick soak in boiling water for an hour can help.

Q: How do I prevent the split peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot?
A: Stir the split peas frequently, especially as they begin to thicken. Also, make sure to use a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute the heat evenly.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté the bacon and onions as directed, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peas are tender.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or parsnips would be delicious additions. Add them to the pot along with the onions.

Final Thoughts

This Swedish Green Split Peas with Bacon is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. It’s a reminder that simple ingredients, prepared with care, can create a truly memorable meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the warmth and satisfaction of this classic dish. Feel free to experiment with variations and make it your own. And don’t forget to share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how it turns out! Skål!