S4 Ep 36: The History Of Split Pea Soup With Guest Gwynedd Stuart

In this episode of Sprung On Food, we delve into the comforting world of split pea soup with guest Gwynedd Stuart, Managing Editor of Sporked. Known for her love of all things culinary, Gwynedd shares her fondness for split pea soup, highlighting its importance as a staple meal filled with warmth and nostalgia.

Split pea soup stands out for its simple yet satisfying quality. Whether you prefer it homemade or canned, one thing is clear: this dish has universal appeal. What makes split pea soup so adored? Perhaps it’s the texture, which Gwynedd affectionately describes as delicious mush, or the comfort that comes from such a timeless classic.

The Global History of Split Pea Soup

The story of split pea soup is a journey through time and continents. Originating from the ancient peas consumed by neolithic peoples around 8,000 BCE in the Near East, peas have long been recognized for their protein content and lasting shelf life. By 5,000 BCE, they were cultivated alongside grains across Europe and Central Asia.

In ancient Greece, pea soup was street food, sold hot and steaming by vendors in Athenian marketplaces, an early nod to modern street food culture. The Romans further embraced legumes, with pea porridge being a staple among soldiers and civilians alike.

Divine intervention meets gastronomy as medieval European peasants and monks relied on dried peas during long fasts, and by the 17th century, split pea soup had cemented its place in the culinary traditions of northeastern Europe, particularly in the Netherlands and Scandinavia.

From Europe to America: The Evolution Continues

Dried pea preservation was a practice migrant families brought to America from northern Europe. In the 19th century, split pea soup became a sustainable dish as families made innovative use of leftover ham bones from holiday meals. The tradition endured, with split pea soup finding a home in American diners, school cafeterias, and even military menus.

Pea Soup Andersen's in California, founded in 1924, remains a cherished roadside stop for split pea soup enthusiasts. With its Danish roots, the restaurant offers an all you can eat special, featuring their world-famous split pea soup served with fresh rolls and a variety of beverages.

The Modern Legacy of Split Pea Soup

Despite its historical roots, split pea soup remains relevant and adaptable. It's often featured in vegan cafes and keto blogs, proving its versatility across dietary preferences. With National Split Pea Soup Week celebrated every second week of November, there is no better time to appreciate this nutritious dish.

Gwynedd Stuart’s enthusiasm for split pea soup is infectious, encouraging us to celebrate this dish for its rich history and comforting nature. Whether you’re drawing inspiration from its past or enjoying a warm bowl on a chilly evening, split pea soup is indeed a culinary tradition for the ages.

Join the Revolution in Comfort Food

We salute split pea soup and assert that it deserves its place in modern media and pop culture. It’s not just a dish; it’s a testament to human survival, comfort, and nutritional ingenuity. Let this be an ode to the creamy, smooth, and luscious delight that is split pea soup, the taste that continues to warm hearts and bellies through millennia.

Join us in keeping the spirit of this beloved soup alive and relishing its taste for generations to come.

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