This creamy vegan pea soup recipe is easy to make, bursting with fresh flavor, and surprisingly healthy. Perfect for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. We'll cover everything from choosing the right peas to perfecting the creamy texture, addressing common questions along the way.
What are the best peas to use for vegan pea soup?
You can use fresh or frozen peas for this recipe. Fresh peas will offer a brighter, sweeter flavor, but frozen peas are just as convenient and work perfectly well. If using fresh peas, you'll need to shell them first – a slightly tedious but rewarding task. Frozen peas are readily available year-round, making them a practical choice. Avoid canned peas, as they often have a softer texture and less vibrant flavor compared to fresh or frozen.
How do I make my vegan pea soup creamy without cream?
The secret to a luxuriously creamy vegan pea soup lies in blending a portion of the soup until completely smooth. This creates a naturally creamy texture without the need for any dairy or heavy cream. Adding a touch of vegan butter or coconut milk at the end can further enhance the creaminess and add a subtle richness.
Can I make this vegan pea soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld and deepen. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze this soup for longer storage – just remember to allow it to thaw completely before reheating.
What are some variations of vegan pea soup?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are a few delicious variations:
- Mint Pea Soup: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves during the blending process for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy Pea Soup: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little heat.
- Lemon Pea Soup: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor and adds a touch of acidity.
- Pea and Potato Soup: Add diced potatoes along with the onions and carrots for a heartier soup.
What are the health benefits of pea soup?
Pea soup is packed with nutrients! Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins like A, C, and K. This soup is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.
Recipe: Creamy Vegan Pea Soup
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups frozen peas (or 3 cups shelled fresh peas)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- 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 garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and water, then add the peas, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- Carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the nutritional yeast (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the vegan butter or coconut milk (if using) and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley (if desired).
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious vegan pea soup! It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a truly satisfying and flavorful meal.
