Pea soup is a comforting and hearty dish loved by many. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor. This soup not only warms you up on cold days but also brings together delicious ingredients in a nutritious way. Whether you’re using dried peas or fresh ones, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any home cook.
Why Make This Recipe
This pea soup is great for several reasons. It is easy to prepare and uses ingredients that you might already have at home. The combination of smoky sausage and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some healthy veggies into your diet!
How to Make Pea Soup
Ingredients:
- 300 g dried green peas (or 500 g fresh/frozen peas)
- 2 carrots (150 g), sliced
- 1 leek (100 g), sliced
- 2 potatoes (300 g), diced
- 1 onion (100 g), chopped
- 150 g smoked sausage or bacon, chopped
- 1.2 L vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter (15 g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley to garnish
Directions:
- If using dried peas, soak them overnight in water. Drain before using.
- In a large pot, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft.
- Add the carrots, leeks, potatoes, and sausage. Stir for 5 minutes.
- Add the peas and broth. Bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes (or 20 minutes for fresh/frozen peas).
- Season with salt and pepper.
- For a smoother texture, mash part of the soup or blend slightly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
How to Serve Pea Soup
Serve pea soup warm in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Pea Soup
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer.
Tips to Make Pea Soup
- For added flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
- If you like your soup thicker, you can blend all or part of it with a hand blender.
- Don’t skip the garnishing with parsley; it adds a fresh touch.
Variation
You can customize this pea soup by adding other vegetables like celery or spinach. Try different meats like ham or turkey for a unique twist on the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried peas if I don’t have fresh or frozen ones?
Yes, dried peas work well, but remember to soak them overnight before cooking.Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage or bacon and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
Enjoy making this delicious pea soup, perfect for any occasion!