If you're looking to enhance your soup game, you might want to contemplate the five best pea soup recipes that cater to a variety of tastes. You can start with the classic split pea soup, which offers a rich, smoky flavor that's perfect for chilly evenings. Or, if you prefer something lighter, the creamy pea and mint option could be just what you need. Each recipe brings something unique to the table, but there's one that stands out for its unexpected twist—curious to find out which one?
Classic Split Pea Soup
Classic split pea soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of split peas, improved by the smoky flavor of ham and the aromatic qualities of vegetables.
With minimal preparation and a slow simmer, you can create a warm bowl of soup that's both nutritious and satisfying. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the rinsed split peas, bay leaf, thyme, and broth to the pot. If using ham, add it now as well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.
Remove the bay leaf before serving and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider using a ham hock or bone in place of diced ham; this will infuse the soup with an incredible smokiness.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup before serving.
Additionally, feel free to customize your soup with other vegetables or herbs you have on hand, such as potatoes or parsley, to suit your taste.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and the flavors will deepen even further!
Creamy Pea and Mint Soup
Creamy pea and mint soup is a delightful and revitalizing dish that perfectly balances the sweet, earthy flavor of peas with the invigorating touch of fresh mint.
This vibrant green soup isn't only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, appetizer, or even a cozy dinner.
The creamy texture adds a touch of indulgence, while the mint raises the overall flavor profile, creating a delicious bowl of comfort that's sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon juice, for garnish
Instructions:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the peas and pour in the broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the peas to become tender.
Remove from heat and add the fresh mint leaves.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and return to low heat until warmed through.
Extra Tips:
For an even creamier texture, you can blend the soup in batches using a countertop blender instead of an immersion blender.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
To improve the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and it also freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it on demand!
Hearty Ham and Pea Soup
Hearty Ham and Pea Soup is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of smoky ham with the sweetness of peas, creating a filling meal perfect for chilly days. This soup isn't only delicious but also a great way to use leftover ham.
With its thick texture and savory taste, it warms the soul and is sure to please the whole family. Follow this simple recipe to whip up a pot of hearty ham and pea soup that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Next, add the diced ham, rinsed split peas, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Remove the bay leaf before serving, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider using a ham bone instead of diced ham, as it will impart more depth to the soup.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving. Feel free to adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more broth if it becomes too thick while simmering.
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy nights.
Vegan Green Pea Soup
Vegan green pea soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that's perfect for any time of the year. This vibrant soup isn't only easy to prepare but is also packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The combination of fresh or frozen green peas, aromatic herbs, and creamy coconut milk makes for a comforting meal that can be served as a starter or a light main course.
Enjoy this soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh mint or basil (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced potato and cook for another 5 minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, add the green peas, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Remove from heat and stir in the coconut milk. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer it to a blender in batches.
Return the soup to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and heat through before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or dill while the soup simmers.
If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.
Additionally, you can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more or less vegetable broth depending on your preference.
Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Spicy Pea Soup With Chorizo
Spicy Pea Soup With Chorizo is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the smoky, savory flavors of chorizo. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, as it brings warmth and a kick of spice to the table. The combination of fresh herbs and spices amplifies the flavor profile, making this soup not only delicious but also comforting.
Get ready to enjoy a bowl of this delightful soup that's sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound chorizo, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 4 cups frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and sliced chorizo, cooking until the chorizo is browned and slightly crispy, about 6-7 minutes.
Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Add the frozen peas, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the peas are tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider using Spanish chorizo for a richer taste.
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or blend less of the soup.
You can also customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or even adding a dash of hot sauce.
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal!