Delicious Pea Soup Recipe Infused With Garlic And Herbs

by Julia
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July 31, 2023

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Indulge in the timeless comfort of our Pea Soup Recipe, a velvety delight that transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Vibrant green peas are pureed to perfection, creating a creamy, luxurious base, while hints of garlic and fresh herbs add depth and aroma. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese crown this elegant dish, adding a touch of richness. Dive into this bowl of soothing bliss and savor the simple yet profound pleasures of life.

Pea soup, a culinary delight imbued with tradition and flavor, opens up a world where simplicity and sophistication intertwine. Each simmering pot tells a tale, with each spoonful offering a glimpse into a cherished past.

Savory, hearty, and warming pea soup bridges cuisines, cultures, and generations. Yet, it remains a personal journey where home cooks infuse their unique flair. As you embark on creating this comforting dish, your kitchen becomes a culinary playground. The process is as rewarding as the taste, from the first sizzle of aromatic vegetables to the final sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s not merely about filling bowls with soup; it’s about crafting memories and a tangible expression of love. Pea soup is an invitation to discover, explore, and savor a time-honored classic. So, are you ready to be a part of this vibrant and flavorful narrative?

What Is Pea Soup Recipe?

Pea soup is a comforting and nourishing dish made primarily from peas, usually split peas, which have a natural creaminess when cooked.Aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery are often included, along with herbs and spices, for flavor. The soup can be pureed for a smooth texture or left chunky, depending on preference. It’s globally popular with variations across cultures, from the smoky ham-infused version in the United States to the vegetarian variant in India. It’s a staple comfort food, enjoyed for its simplicity and heartiness.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Pea soup is a versatile dish that can easily accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions:

Keto While split peas are not typically keto-friendly due to their carb content, you can create a keto version by substituting peas with lower-carb vegetables like zucchini or broccoli, and adding a higher fat content with cream or a generous dollop of sour cream.
Paleo Traditional pea soup is already paleo-friendly, provided you skip any added sugars or dairy. You might also opt for a meat-free version or use compliant sausage or bacon.
Gluten-Free Pea soup is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any stock or broth you use is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Whole30 To make a Whole30 pea soup, avoid legumes (including peas) and dairy. A good alternative could be a creamy vegetable soup with compliant sausage or chicken for protein.
Vegetarian and Vegan To make your pea soup vegetarian or vegan, simply omit any meat. Use vegetable stock/broth instead of chicken or beef. For a creamy vegan version, blend cooked peas with vegetable broth, sautéed onion, and garlic. To add flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

Recipe Directions

Melt the butter over medium heat in a large saucepan or soup pot. Add the chopped shallots and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the water and add the peas to the pot—season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered until the peas are tender. This should take about 10-15 minutes if you’re using fresh peas or slightly longer for frozen peas.
Once the peas are cooked, remove the soup from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth. Work in batches to avoid overfilling the blender jar if using a regular blender.
Place a fine-mesh strainer over the saucepan and strain the pureed soup back into the pot. This step will remove any fibrous bits and ensure a smooth consistency.
If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add richness and a creamy texture to the soup. Return the saucepan to low heat and gently reheat the soup, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to let it boil after adding the cream to prevent curdling.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer.
It is ready to serve once the soup is heated and well-seasoned. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Variations, Add-Ons And Toppings

Pea soup can be easily adapted to suit different palates and diets. Here are some exciting variations, add-ons, and toppings:

Variations

Meaty Twist: Add diced ham, bacon, or smoked sausage during the cooking process for a hearty, smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, add diced potatoes or chunks of carrots for added texture and flavor.
Spiced Up: For an Indian twist, you could add spices like cumin, turmeric, and a hint of chili powder.

Add-ons

Protein Boost: Stir in shredded chicken, diced tofu, or cooked lentils for added protein.
Vitamin Kick: Add a handful of spinach or kale just before blending for a nutritional boost and a vibrant green color.
Creamy Delight: Add a swirl of cream, yogurt, or coconut milk for a richer soup.

Toppings

Crunch Factor: Top with croutons, roasted nuts, or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.
Fresh and Zesty: A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest can add a fresh, tangy contrast to the creamy soup.
Herb Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or dill just before serving.
Cheese Topping: A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a spoonful of ricotta can add a delicious finishing touch.

Can I Make Soup Name In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Pea soup can definitely be made in either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. These appliances make the soup-making process even more effortless. Here’s how:

Slow Cooker

Begin by sautéing your shallots in a pan over medium heat until they’re soft and translucent. Transfer them to the slow cooker.
Add the peas, water, and seasonings into the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the peas are tender.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the cooker or carefully transfer it to a regular blender in batches. If you prefer a smoother consistency, strain the soup after blending.
Stir in the cream (if using), taste, and adjust the seasonings. Serve hot.

Instant Pot

Use the sauté function on your Instant Pot to cook the shallots until they’re soft and translucent.
Add the peas, water, and seasonings to the pot, stirring to combine.
Secure the lid and set the pressure release to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Puree the soup using an immersion blender or in a regular blender in batches. If you prefer a smoother consistency, strain the soup after blending.
Stir in the cream (if using), taste, and adjust the seasonings. Serve hot.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Both options work well and largely depend on your personal preference and the time you have at hand.

Store-Bought Broth

This is a convenient and time-saving option. When shopping for store-bought broth, aim for low-sodium versions so you can control the salt content in your soup. Always check the ingredients to ensure there are no additives or ingredients you might be sensitive to.

The flavor of store-bought broths varies significantly between brands, so you should try a few to find your favorite.

Homemade Broth

Making your own broth allows you to control the ingredients and flavor. It’s a great way to use up vegetable scraps or leftover bones. Homemade broth often has a fresher, deeper flavor than store-bought versions.

However, it does require more time and planning. If you make broth regularly, consider making it in large batches and freezing it in portion-sized containers for future use.

How To Serve ?

Pea soup is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion, personal preferences, and what you have on hand. Here are some serving suggestions:

Bread on the Side: A piece of crusty bread or a roll makes a delightful companion to a bowl of pea soup. It adds a contrasting texture and is perfect for dipping.
With a Salad: A light, fresh salad can contrast the rich, creamy soup. A simple green salad or a tangy coleslaw would work well.
As a Starter: Pea soup can be served as a warming starter before a main course. If serving in this way, keep portion sizes smaller.
In a Soup & Sandwich Combo: Pair a cup of pea soup with a half sandwich for a satisfying lunch. Consider a delightful combination of classic grilled cheese or a ham and cheese sandwich.
Soup Bar: If serving to a crowd, consider setting up a soup bar with different toppings like shredded cheese, chopped herbs, and croutons, allowing guests to customize their own bowl of soup.

Perfect Side Dishes

Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread like a baguette or a hearty whole grain loaf is a simple and classic companion to any soup, perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Elevate your soup-and-sandwich combo with grilled cheese. The melted cheese and toasted bread offer an excellent contrast to the creamy soup.
Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance out the heartiness of the soup. You could go with a simple green salad or something with a bit of crunch, like a cucumber and radish salad.
Pita Chips or Crackers: For a bit of crunch, serve your soup with a side of pita chips or whole grain crackers
Quiche or Frittata: A slice of quiche or frittata can pair nicely with the soup for a more substantial meal. Choose one with flavors that complement the soup, like a simple cheese or a more complex spinach and feta.

Storage And Make Ahead

Storage: Store the chicken rice soup mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture from entering and spoiling the mix.
Make Ahead: To make ahead, prepare the soup mix as directed, but do not add the water or broth. Store the dry mix in an airtight container until ready to use. When ready to cook, simply add the mix to water or broth and cook according to the recipe instructions. This allows for a quick and convenient meal preparation, perfect for busy days.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Leftover Chicken Rice Soup Mix can be repurposed in several creative ways, ensuring that no food goes to waste and every meal stays exciting:

Add to a Stir-fry: Use the soup as a flavorful base for a quick stir-fry. Toss in some fresh veggies and protein of choice for a complete meal.
Transform into a Casserole: Combine the leftover soup with some pasta, top with cheese, and bake until golden for a comforting casserole.
Create a Pie Filling: Use the soup as a filling for a savory pot pie, topped with a puff pastry or a biscuit crust.
Use as a Sauce: Blend the soup into a smooth sauce and serve over grilled chicken or steamed veggies.
Stuff Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the leftover soup. Top with cheese and bake for a satisfying meal.

Tips

Enhance the flavor by sautéing onions and garlic before adding the peas and broth.
For added creaminess, blend a small portion of cooked peas and stir them back into the soup.
Add a touch of sweetness with a sprinkle of sugar or a splash of apple juice.
For a smoky flavor, stir in a bit of smoked paprika or bacon bits.
Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can add a burst of freshness to the soup.
Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Serve with a swirl of olive oil and a sprinkle of black pepper for a gourmet touch.