Pea Soup
Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Pea soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul and nourishes the body. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing for substitutions based on your pantry. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a light lunch, this soup is a celebration of simplicity and wholesome ingredients that every home cook can master.
Ingredients
– 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 stalk celery, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): Calories: 150, Protein: 8g, Carbohydrates: 25g, Fat: 4g, Fiber: 6g. This serving size provides a nutritious option packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy meal choice for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions, cooking until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for another minute.
4. Add diced carrots and celery, sautéing until softened.
5. Incorporate the green peas into the pot.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
8. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Alternative Ingredients
Pea soup is quite adaptable! You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option. Additionally, fresh herbs can be replaced with dried herbs, and you can use leeks instead of onions for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Pea soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or a dollop of sour cream. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a charcuterie board.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Cooking Mistakes
– Not soaking dried peas before cooking.
– Overcooking the peas, making them mushy.
– Forgetting to season during cooking.
– Using too much water, leading to a bland flavor.
– Skipping the blending step for a smoother texture.
– Not sautéing the aromatics long enough for flavor.
– Using old or stale ingredients.
Helpful Tips
– Always taste as you cook to adjust flavors.
– Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
– Use fresh peas in season for the best flavor.
– Experiment with spices like cumin or coriander for a twist.
– For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk.
– Garnish with crispy bacon bits for added crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. They are often picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen, maintaining their nutritional value and flavor.
How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply use vegetable broth and omit any dairy products. You can enhance creaminess by adding coconut milk or blended cashews.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes! You can add diced ham or cooked chicken for added protein and flavor. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
How can I thicken my pea soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply blend a portion of the soup back into the pot or add a small amount of potato while cooking.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Pea soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
Pea soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please. Embrace the simplicity and joy of cooking with this delightful soup!
Pea Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups green peas fresh or frozen
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot diced
- 1 stalk celery diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, cooking until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic, cooking for another minute.
- Add diced carrots and celery, sautéing until softened.
- Incorporate the green peas into the pot.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
