This pea soup is warm, hearty, and super easy to make! With just split peas, veggies, and some spices, you’ll have a cozy bowl ready in no time. It’s like a big hug on a chilly day!
Sometimes, I like to toss in some croutons for a little crunch. Honestly, what’s better than a bowl of soup that makes you feel all snuggly inside? Perfect comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peas: Fresh peas offer the best flavor, but frozen peas work perfectly and are convenient. I keep a bag in my freezer for quick meals!
Onion: A medium onion adds nice flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with shallots or green onions for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference, but garlic powder can be a decent backup. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove.
Vegetable Broth: While vegetable broth works well, chicken broth can add a richer flavor if you’re not worried about being vegetarian.
Potato: The potato helps thicken the soup. You can swap it with cauliflower for a low-carb option or use any other starchy vegetable like sweet potato.
Herbs for Garnish: Fresh parsley or mint brighten the dish. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried versions work, but use less—about a teaspoon will do!
How Do You Get the Right Texture When Pureeing Soup?
Puring the soup smoothly is key to a great pea soup. Here’s how to do it successfully:
- When the soup is done cooking, let it cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.
- If using an immersion blender, blend directly in the pot until smooth, ensuring an even texture.
- For a conventional blender, fill it only halfway and hold the lid down with a towel to prevent hot liquid from escaping.
- If it’s too thick after blending, slowly stir in more broth or water until you get your desired consistency.
How to Make Delicious Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish
- Croutons, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pea soup recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and roughly 30 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 40 minutes. You’ll spend some time chopping and sautéing, but the result is a warm, comforting soup that’s worth every moment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This will add a nice sweetness to your soup.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn—this keeps the flavor bright!
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Now, stir in the diced potato. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes. This will help soften the potato a little, so it blends nicely with the rest of the soup later.
4. Add Peas and Broth:
Time to bring the soup together! Add the fresh or frozen peas along with the vegetable (or chicken) broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You want the peas and potatoes to be tender.
5. Blend the Soup:
Once your veggies are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it’s smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches—just be careful with the hot liquid!
6. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to give your pea soup some flavor. Add salt and pepper according to your taste. If the soup is thicker than you prefer, simply add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious pea soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or mint for a pop of color and flavor. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some croutons on top. Enjoy your homemade soup!
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Fresh Peas?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a great substitute and often more convenient. They’re picked and frozen at peak freshness, so they’ll taste delicious in your soup. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing; they will cook perfectly in the simmering broth.
How Can I Adjust the Thickness of the Soup?
If you find the soup is too thick for your liking, simply add more vegetable or chicken broth, or even water, a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it a bit longer to allow for evaporation, or add a few more peas or diced potatoes to thicken it up.
How Should I Store Leftover Pea Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
What Are Some Variations I Can Try with This Recipe?
You can easily customize this pea soup by adding other vegetables like carrots or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving. If you love a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pot.
