Grochówka
Polish Pea Soup
A deeply satisfying and hearty Polish pea soup, often considered a military classic due to its robust flavor and filling nature. This recipe yields a thick, comforting soup perfect for cold days.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500g Dried split peas(Yellow or green split peas work well. Rinse them thoroughly before soaking.)
- 300g Smoked bacon(A good quality smoked bacon, like streaky bacon or a smoked pork belly, will add depth of flavor. Cut into 1-2 cm cubes.)
- 3 medium Potatoes(Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are recommended as they hold their shape well. Peeled and diced into 1.5 cm cubes.)
- 2 medium Carrots(Peeled and diced into 1 cm cubes.)
- 2 tsp Dried marjoram(Fresh marjoram can be used, but use about 3 times the amount (6 tsp chopped).)
- 2 liters Water or Broth(Water is traditional, but vegetable or chicken broth can add extra flavor.)
- To taste Salt
- To taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cold running water. Place them in a large bowl and cover with plenty of cold water. Let them soak overnight (at least 8 hours).
⏱️ Overnight (8+ hours) - 2
Drain the soaked peas and rinse them again. Place the drained peas in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add the cubed smoked bacon and 2 liters of water (or broth). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently.
⏱️ 1 hour 30 minutes - 3
Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, until the vegetables are tender and the peas have broken down further, creating a thick, soup-like consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 4
Stir in the dried marjoram. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The soup should be very thick, almost stew-like.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 5
Ladle the hot Grochówka into bowls. Serve immediately. It is traditionally served very thick.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓This soup is a staple of Polish military field rations, known for its hearty and filling nature.
- ✓The desired consistency for authentic Grochówka is very thick, almost like a stew. Adjust liquid as needed.
- ✓For an even richer flavor, let the soup rest overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it the next day. The flavors will meld beautifully.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced kielbasa (Polish sausage) along with the bacon for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- For a smoother texture, you can partially blend the soup using an immersion blender after the vegetables are cooked, before adding the marjoram. Be careful not to over-blend if you prefer some texture.