Want to make a pea soup the whole family will love? The secret is simple—quality smoked ribs and the right peas. Get those right, and you’re on your way to a winner.

The recipe is easy, but patience is key to bringing out all the flavors.

Let it simmer, let the ingredients work their magic, and you’ll have a rich, hearty soup that’s impossible to resist.

Directions

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  1. Take dry yellow peas and soak in cold water for 30 minutes in a deep bowl.
  2. Boil water in a saucepan and add the ribs. Cook for another half hour. If you have more time, use it and cook for 1-2 hours because the ideal rib soup easily separates the meat from the bone.
  3. Salt the water to taste. Remember that smoked ribs are usually already salted—pге onion and carrots, chopped into small pieces. Optionally, you can add potatoes and cut them into small pieces.
  4. Wait for 15 minutes and add the swollen peas. Simmer over low heat, stirring frequently. Peas have to turn into a homogeneous liquid. If you bought good, not overdried peas, they will easily disintegrate into a puree.
  5. Remove the soup from the stove and put some saffron in it. But even without saffron, the taste of the soup will be full, because it smells slightly smoky.
  6. Serve with croutons and herbs.

The correct soup peas look like this:

Quebec-Style Yellow Pea Soup | Kitchen Vignettes | PBS Food

Video by PBS Food

Health Benefits of Pea Soup with Smoked Ribs

This pea soup isn’t just comforting—it’s packed with nutrients that support overall health. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and strength. When combined with smoked ribs, the soup provides a balanced protein boost that keeps you full and satisfied.

The high fiber content aids digestion, supports gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. A bowl of this soup promotes satiety, preventing unhealthy cravings. Legumes like peas are also known to reduce cholesterol and support cardiovascular health, making this dish a heart-friendly choice.

Slow-cooked ribs release essential minerals like iron, zinc, and collagen, which are crucial for strong bones and joint health. The broth is packed with nutrients, helping the body absorb these vital elements. Carrots and herbs provide antioxidants and vitamins that strengthen the immune system and promote wellness.

Thanks to complex carbohydrates from peas and optional potatoes, this soup offers steady energy without sudden spikes in blood sugar. Its warm, broth-based consistency helps maintain hydration while delivering essential electrolytes for balance.

Risks of Pea Soup with Smoked Ribs

This pea soup is hearty and nutritious, but there are a few things to consider. Smoked ribs bring deep, rich flavor, yet they can be high in salt and saturated fat. Too much sodium may affect blood pressure, while excess fat isn’t ideal for heart health. To keep it lighter, choose less salty smoked meats or rinse them before cooking.

Peas are packed with fiber, which is great for digestion, but they can cause bloating if your body isn’t used to them. Soaking them before cooking helps break down compounds that may cause discomfort, making them easier to digest.

Store-bought smoked meats sometimes contain artificial additives or preservatives, which may not suit everyone. Opting for naturally smoked ribs without unnecessary chemicals ensures a cleaner, healthier dish.

With a few adjustments, this soup remains a wholesome, comforting meal that fits well into a balanced diet.