Finnish Dried Pea Soup Hernekeitto Finland
Transport your taste buds to the heart of Finland with traditional Finnish Dried Pea Soup, or Hernekeitto. This hearty and comforting dish combines the earthiness of dried yellow peas, the rich smokiness of ham hock, and the fragrant warmth of bay leaves and thyme to create a soul-soothing bowl of goodness. Slow-simmered to develop deep, layered flavors, this classic Finnish soup is both simple and satisfying, perfect for long winter evenings or a cozy lunch. With a creamy texture achieved through the natural breakdown of the peas, Hernekeitto gains an extra layer of flavor when served with a touch of tangy mustard. Easy to make ahead and ideal for meal prep, this protein-packed Nordic staple is a timeless recipe your family will love. Search no further for an authentic taste of Finland in every spoonful!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams Dried yellow peas
- 2 liters Water
- 500 grams Smoked ham hock or bone-in ham
- 1 large Onion
- 1 large Carrot
- 2 Bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- Mustard (for serving, optional)
Instructions
Rinse the dried yellow peas thoroughly and place them in a large bowl. Cover with water and soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse before using.
In a large soup pot, combine the soaked yellow peas with 2 liters of fresh water. Add the smoked ham hock or bone-in ham to the pot.
Peel and dice the onion and carrot. Add them to the soup pot along with the bay leaves and thyme.
Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during the first 15 minutes of cooking.
Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer gently for about 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
After 2.5 hours, check the consistency of the soup. If it's too thick, add a little more water. If the peas have broken down and the soup is creamy, it's ready for seasoning.
Remove the ham hock or bone from the pot. Shred the meat from the bone and return the meat to the soup, discarding the bone.
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well and let simmer for another 10 minutes.
Serve the soup hot with a dollop of mustard for added flavor, if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2555 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.9 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.6 g | 93% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 250 mg | 83% | |
| Sodium | 7100 mg | 309% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 330.3 g | 120% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 133.6 g | 477% | |
| Total Sugars | 53.6 g | ||
| Protein | 201.3 g | 403% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 557 mg | 43% | |
| Iron | 29.7 mg | 165% | |
| Potassium | 6700 mg | 143% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
