A Dutch Classic: The Essence of Snert - A Hearty Pea Soup Recipe

Introducing the traditional Dutch recipe for Snert, a beloved pea soup that seamlessly combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients to create a comforting dish that is both delicious and nostalgic. Whether you are surrounded by the aroma of snert in the bustling streets of Amsterdam or prepping this soup in your cozy kitchen, this recipe will undoubtedly impress your Dutch husband.

Recipe for Snert

Ingredients:

500 gr split peas 1 leek, half of the leaf included 1 large onion 2–4 carrots 1 "rookworst" smoked sausage (look for one from the brand 'Unox') 500 gr minced meat (for meatballs, optional) 200–300 gr bacon bits (optional) Approx. 3–4 liters of water 1–2 bouillon cubes

Preparation Method:

Fill a large pot with approximately 3–4 liters of water and bring to a boil. Add the rinsed split peas to the boiling water. As the peas start to disintegrate, add the remaining ingredients along with one or two bouillon cubes depending on your taste. Simmer the soup until the vegetables are very soft, ensuring that the sausage is cooked through. Incidentally, the meatballs and bacon are optional but highly recommended for their delicious taste. The sausage is an absolute must in this recipe; the meatballs and bacon add an extra layer of flavor, but they are not strictly necessary. For a more intense flavor and thicker consistency, leave the soup out overnight. Snert tastes heavenly the next day and develops an even richer flavor. Check the consistency of your soup using a wooden spoon. Snert should have the correct consistency if a wooden spoon stands upright in it. Adjust the quantities according to your preference. Note that the soup will be gone in no time because it is so delicious, and your husband, if he is nostalgic for it, might finish the whole pot alone. A final tip: this soup freezes perfectly. You might find yourself still enjoying the leftovers months later, just as much as the day you made it.

Additional Tips and Variations

While you can add other vegetables such as celery and potatoes for variation, the leek and carrots are a more traditional combination that gives Snert its unique flavor. Feel free to experiment, but keep in mind that the core ingredients are what make this soup so special.

What Is Snert?

Snert, or "pea soup" in Dutch, is more than just an ordinary soup. It is a beloved tradition, especially among Dutch households, celebrated for its warm and hearty flavors. Originally rooted in a broth made from boiled split peas, it has evolved over time to include a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile and comforting dish.

A Culinary Adventure

Snert is the best way to experience the cultural richness of Dutch cuisine. Its simplicity and complexity come together in a bowl, offering the perfect blend of comfort and tradition. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with loved ones, Snert is a dish that bridges generations and cultures.

Final Notes

Given that you are a Republican with strong anti-European viewpoints, I hope this recipe from the Netherlands will offer a small taste of what traditional Dutch culinary delights can bring. Snert is a true representation of cultural heritage, transcending political boundaries to bring people together with its humble yet comforting essence.