Hraskova Polievka, or Slovak Pea Soup, is a beloved traditional dish in Slovakia. Unlike the thicker versions of pea soup seen in other cuisines, this Slovak variation has a thin, clear broth that allows the natural sweetness of peas and the smokiness of bacon to shine through. The soup is simple and comforting, often served as a starter or a light meal, especially during the colder months.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients (For Four People)
- 1 cup dried yellow or green split peas, rinsed
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 100g smoked bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Sauté the bacon
In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it releases fat and becomes lightly crisp. Remove half of the bacon and set aside for garnish.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrot, and potato to the pot with the bacon and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
Step 3: Add peas and broth
Add the rinsed split peas and water or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the bay leaf and thyme (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas and vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Season and serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the hraskova polievka into bowls, garnish with the reserved bacon and fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Tips and Tricks
For added flavor, consider using a smoked ham hock or a piece of smoked sausage instead of bacon. Be sure to remove any bones before serving. If you prefer a slightly thicker broth, simmer the soup longer to allow the peas to break down more.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hraskova Polievka with a slice of rye or crusty bread to soak up the broth. This simple soup pairs well with a light side salad or pickled vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Modifications
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and limit the amount of added salt.
Storage Suggestions
Refrigerating: Allow the Hraskova Polievka to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but for best results, freeze it without the potatoes, as they can become grainy when thawed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat gently, and add freshly cooked potatoes if desired.
About the Hraskova Polievka
Hraskova Polievka is a classic Slovak soup, often enjoyed as part of traditional meals. Its clear broth and light texture make it a refreshing yet satisfying choice, particularly in Slovakian households where peas are a staple ingredient. Unlike thicker pea soups, Hraskova Polievka celebrates the natural flavors of its simple ingredients, letting the smoked bacon and fresh vegetables add depth to the light broth.
Cultural Context
In Slovakia, soups are a common part of daily meals, and Hraskova Polievka holds a special place in the Slovak culinary tradition. This pea soup reflects the practicality and simplicity of Slovak cooking, where local ingredients like peas, root vegetables, and smoked meats are celebrated. Slovakian meals often begin with a light soup, and Hraskova Polievka offers warmth and comfort, especially during the cooler months.
