This recipe delivers a luxuriously creamy pea soup without relying on ham for flavor. We'll build depth and richness using readily available ingredients, creating a satisfying and flavorful soup perfect for a light lunch or a comforting dinner.
What Makes This Pea Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe avoids the traditional ham-based pea soup, instead focusing on building layers of flavor through vegetable stock, aromatic herbs, and a touch of creaminess achieved without relying on heavy cream. It’s a lighter, vegetarian-friendly alternative that’s just as delicious! We emphasize fresh peas for the best flavor, but frozen peas work perfectly well in a pinch.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound fresh or frozen peas (if using frozen, no need to thaw)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Peas and Broth: Stir in the peas, vegetable broth, and water. Add the thyme and marjoram. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
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Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream (if using) and heat through gently. Do not boil.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh peas?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen peas work perfectly well in this recipe. There's no need to thaw them before adding them to the pot.
What can I substitute for vegetable broth?
Chicken broth will add a richer flavor, but you can also use water if you prefer a lighter soup. Consider adding a bouillon cube for extra flavor depth.
How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply omit the heavy cream or use a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Ensure your vegetable broth is also vegan-friendly.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How can I thicken this soup?
If you find your soup too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water until it reaches your desired consistency.
This ham-free pea soup recipe provides a delicious and adaptable base. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique version! Enjoy!
