🌿 Creamy Green Pea Elixir: A Burst of Spring in Every Spoon 🌿

Introduction

Pea soup has long been cherished across various culinary traditions for its comforting, hearty nature and rich nutritional profile. This particular rendition of pea soup, featured on lovewithrecipes.com, exemplifies simplicity and elegance, emphasizing fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and quick preparation. Its vibrant green hue and smooth, velvety texture make it an inviting starter or main course, especially suitable for health-conscious individuals or those seeking a comforting yet wholesome meal. The recipe is designed to be accessible, requiring minimal culinary expertise while still delivering complex flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lunch on a chilly day or a nutritious addition to your weekly meal plan, this pea soup is an excellent choice that can be customized to suit dietary preferences and personal taste.

Time

The total estimated time to prepare and serve this pea soup is approximately 25-30 minutes. This includes preparation, cooking, blending, and garnishing steps, making it an ideal option for quick weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or last-minute gatherings.

Needed Equipment

• 2-quart (1.9 liters) saucepan or stockpot
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Blender (immersion blender or countertop blender)
• Small sauté pan (optional, for garnish)
• Serving bowls
• Cooking ladle
• Microplane or fine grater (for garnishing with fresh herbs or lemon zest)
• Optional: fine mesh strainer or sieve (for straining if you prefer an ultra-smooth texture)

Tags

Vegetarian, Healthy, Quick, Easy, Comfort Food, Lunch, Dinner, Kid-Friendly, Low-Cholesterol, High Fiber, Nutritious

Serving Size

The recipe yields approximately 4 servings, with each serving being roughly 1 to 1.5 cups of soup. Adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally if preparing for more guests or for larger portion sizes.

Difficulty Level

Easy. This recipe is suitable for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs. The steps involve basic techniques such as sautéing, blending, and simmering, all of which are straightforward and manageable.

Allergen Information

This dish contains:

• Butter (dairy)
• Flour (gluten)
• Chicken broth (animal protein, may contain gluten or additives depending on brand)

To make it allergen-friendly, consider substituting dairy-free butter or margarine, gluten-free flour, and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.

Dietary Preference

Primarily vegetarian if chicken broth is replaced with vegetable broth. Can be made vegan with suitable substitutions. Rich in fiber and vitamins, ideal for health-conscious diets. Suitable for low-cholesterol and low-fat eating plans.

Course

Appetizer, Light Main Course, Soup

Cuisine

Global, with influences from European comfort food traditions. Variations of pea soup are found in French, British, and Scandinavian cuisines.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Workspace and Gather Ingredients

Before starting, ensure all ingredients are measured and prepared. This step minimizes distractions and streamlines the cooking process. Wash and peel the carrot, finely chop the scallions, and set everything within easy reach. If you’re using fresh parsley, wash and chop it finely. Grab your blender, saucepan, and other necessary tools.

2. Melt the Butter and Sauté Aromatics

Place your 2-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely, swirling the pan gently to distribute evenly. Once melted and bubbling, add the diced carrot and scallions. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant, tender, and slightly translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. This process releases essential flavors and creates a fragrant base for the soup.

3. Incorporate Flour to Create a Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir vigorously, ensuring the flour coats the vegetables and absorbs the butter, creating a roux. Continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color and emits a nutty aroma. This step thickens the soup and improves its texture, contributing to the velvety consistency.

4. Gradually Add the Liquid and Simmer

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. A steady stream while stirring ensures a smooth, homogeneous mixture. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat. Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 6-8 minutes, which helps meld the flavors and softens the peas.

5. Add Peas and Continue Simmering

Stir the frozen baby peas into the soup. Cover and let simmer for an additional 6-8 minutes until the peas are tender and the flavors are well integrated. If you prefer a thicker or more concentrated flavor, you can simmer a few minutes longer, but avoid overcooking to preserve the bright green color and fresh flavor of the peas.

6. Blend Until Smooth and Velvety

Carefully transfer the hot soup to a blender in batches, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until completely smooth and velvety, with no lumps remaining. For an ultra-smooth texture, you may pass the soup through a fine mesh strainer or sieve, pressing gently to extract all the liquid and remove any fibrous bits.

7. Return to Heat and Add Final Touches

Pour the blended soup back into the saucepan if using a countertop blender. Stir in the dry sherry, adjusting to taste—start with 1 tablespoon and add more if desired for extra depth. Warm over low heat just until heated through. Do not boil vigorously after adding alcohol, as it can alter the flavor and texture.

8. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot pea soup into individual bowls. For an elegant presentation, float a slice of lemon on top of each serving, adding a bright citrus note. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to introduce a fresh herbal aroma and vibrant color. Serve immediately with your preferred accompaniments or chilled if desired on warmer days.

Preparation Tips

• Vegetarian/vegan adaptation: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based butter or margarine. Omit sherry or substitute with a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
• Consistent chopping: Dice the carrot into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Finely chop scallions to prevent overpowering bites and to achieve a smooth texture.
• Blending tips: Use a high-powered blender for superior smoothness. Allow the hot soup to cool slightly before blending to prevent pressure buildup and splattering.
• Flavor enhancement: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a smoky or spicy variation.

Nutritional Information

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Tips and Tricks

• Make it creamier: For a richer texture, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
• Add depth: Incorporate roasted garlic or caramelized onions for a more complex flavor profile.
• Texture variations: For a chunkier soup, reserve some cooked peas and vegetables to stir in after blending, or omit blending altogether for a rustic style.
• Flavor boosters: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of vinegar enhances brightness and balances the richness.
• Storage and reheating: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Add-ons

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese for added creaminess
• Toasted croutons or breadsticks for crunch
• Cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch
• Chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or basil for extra freshness
• Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Side Dishes

Complement this soup with:

• Rustic crusty bread or baguette slices
• Simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Cheese and charcuterie platter for a more indulgent meal
• Grilled cheese sandwich for a classic pairing

Improvements

• Incorporate other vegetables such as potatoes or celery for added depth and nutrition.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices—thyme, rosemary, or cumin can transform the flavor profile.
• Add a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle for a smoky variation.
• Use fresh peas in season for a more vibrant flavor, or substitute with canned peas for convenience.

Save and Store

For optimal flavor and texture, store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to restore the desired consistency.

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth, use plant-based butter or margarine, and omit sherry or replace with a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar for acidity.

Can I freeze this pea soup?

Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used. Blanch them briefly in boiling water, then add to the soup during the simmering stage, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to retain their bright color and sweetness.

Is this soup suitable for kids?

Yes. Its mild flavor and smooth texture make it appealing to children. You can omit or reduce the sherry and add a little extra parsley or lemon for added flavor.

What are some variations I can try?

Introduce ingredients like cooked ham, smoked sausage, or cooked bacon for a savory twist. Add herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Conclusion

This pea soup recipe, shared in detail on lovewithrecipes.com, exemplifies how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can culminate in a nourishing, flavorful dish. Its versatility allows for numerous adaptations to cater to dietary needs and taste preferences. By mastering these foundational steps, you can transform humble peas and vegetables into a velvety, vibrant bowl of goodness that comforts and satisfies. Whether served warm or chilled, this soup promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a healthy, satisfying, and visually appealing meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. Remember, the key to perfect pea soup lies in fresh ingredients, gentle blending, and thoughtful garnishing. Happy cooking!

References

• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: The Nutrition Source — Peas
• Delicious Magazine: Classic Pea Soup Recipes