If you have ever craved a bowl that warms the soul and delights the senses, then this Pea Soup Recipe: Traditional & Fresh Variations Recipe is just the culinary hug you need. This dish beautifully showcases two beloved versions: the hearty, comforting traditional split pea soup simmered to rich perfection, and the vibrant, fresh green pea soup that sings with bright spring flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something nourishing on a chilly evening or a refreshing, creamy green delight in warmer months, this recipe guide will take you step-by-step through both versions, making it easy and fun to bring these timeless soups to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the essence each ingredient brings to the soup. From the earthy depth of split peas to the fresh burst of green peas, every component plays a vital role in the flavor, texture, and color, creating a perfect balance whether you opt for traditional heartiness or fresh elegance.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle richness and helps in gently sautéing your vegetables without overpowering their flavors.
- Medium onion, diced: Provides a natural sweetness and aromatic base that enhances the soup’s overall taste.
- Carrots, peeled and diced: Bring tender softness and a slight sweetness that rounds out the savory elements.
- Celery stalks, diced: Amp up the aromatics with their fresh, slightly peppery flavor, creating depth in the broth.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuse a warm, pungent note that lifts the soup’s complexity.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle herbal touch perfect for traditional variations.
- Bay leaf (1): Adds a faint hint of earthiness that supports the heartier ingredients.
- Dried green split peas (1 1/2 cups): The core ingredient for the traditional soup, giving it creamy thickness and robust protein.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (6 cups): Forms the flavorful liquid base; using low sodium lets you control the saltiness.
- Smoked ham hock or diced cooked ham (1 cup): Imparts a smoky charisma that defines traditional split pea soup, but can be omitted for vegetarian diets.
- Butter or olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used in the fresh variation to sauté ingredients delicately, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Small onion, chopped: For the fresh version, creating a gentle sweetness that complements green peas.
- Fresh or frozen green peas (2 cups): Bring that vibrant spring green color and sweet, fresh flavor to the lighter soup.
- Vegetable broth (2 cups): Keeps the fresh version light and flavorful while catering to plant-based diets.
- Fresh mint leaves (1/4 cup, optional): Introduces a refreshing aroma and cool lift when included in the fresh pea soup.
- Heavy cream or coconut milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and a silky finish, enhancing the fresh variation’s texture.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings adjusted to taste to bring all the ingredients into harmonious balance.
How to Make Pea Soup Recipe: Traditional & Fresh Variations Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Soffritto for Traditional Soup
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté them gently until they become soft and fragrant, which usually takes about five minutes. This soffritto layer creates a rich foundation, coaxing out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and infusing the soup with deep flavor.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Peas
Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the softened vegetables, letting their aromas bloom for a minute. Then, add the rinsed split peas, broth, and smoked ham hock or diced ham. The peas bring velvety creaminess, while the ham enriches the broth with smoky, savory notes.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for one to one and a half hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking softens the peas until they melt into the broth, thickening it into the hearty, velvety texture that defines traditional split pea soup.
Step 4: Final Touches for Traditional Soup
Once the peas are tender and the soup is thickened, remove the bay leaf and take out the ham hock if used. Shred any meat from the hock and return it to the pot, stirring it through to distribute smoky chunks of ham throughout. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and your traditional split pea soup is ready to serve.
Step 5: Cook the Fresh Green Pea Soup
For the brighter, spring-forward version, heat butter or olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent and soft, about four minutes. Add the fresh or frozen green peas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for five to seven minutes or until the peas are tender and vibrant in color.
Step 6: Blend and Finish the Fresh Variation
If you are using fresh mint, stir it in now, letting its refreshing aroma infuse the warm soup before removing it from heat. Blend the mixture until smooth, either with an immersion blender right in the pot or by carefully transferring to a stand blender. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for luscious creaminess, then season with salt and pepper. This fresh green pea soup can be enjoyed warm or chilled as an elegant starter.
How to Serve Pea Soup Recipe: Traditional & Fresh Variations Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you get to add personal flair and extra flavor. For the traditional split pea soup, crispy croutons, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream perfectly contrast the rich texture. The fresh pea soup shines with a few torn mint leaves, a swirl of cream, or even a grating of lemon zest to brighten it up beautifully.
Side Dishes
Both versions pair wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a lovely balance to the hearty traditional soup, while a light asparagus or pea shoot salad complements the fresh variation elegantly without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl to impress your guests! Serve the traditional soup in rustic bread bowls for a homey feel that delights both the eyes and the palate. The fresh pea soup can be elegantly poured into small ramekins or glasses and garnished with edible flowers or microgreens for a stunning appetizer that’s sure to wow at any spring gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Both pea soup versions actually develop deeper flavors after resting, making them perfect for storing as leftovers. Keep the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. For the traditional soup, leave the ham in the soup to continue flavoring the broth; for the fresh soup, give it a quick stir before serving, as it may thicken.
Freezing
Freeze the soups in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. The traditional split pea soup freezes beautifully, and just thaw and reheat. The fresh green pea soup can be frozen as well, but keep in mind that the cream may separate slightly; a good whisk after reheating will bring it back together nicely.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soups gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld. For the fresh pea soup, add a splash more broth or cream if the texture feels too thick once reheated. Avoid boiling to preserve the bright green color and delicate mint aroma.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For the traditional soup, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. In the fresh pea soup, use coconut milk in place of heavy cream for a vegan and dairy-free option that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
What if I don’t have a ham hock?
No worries! You can simply use diced cooked ham or even smoked sausage for a similar smoky flavor. If you prefer the vegetarian route, omit the meat and just adjust seasonings to boost the soup’s depth.
Can I use dried green peas for the fresh pea soup?
The fresh pea soup really benefits from the bright flavor and sweetness of fresh or frozen green peas. Dried split peas are better suited for the traditional version as they need longer cooking and have a different texture once soft.
Is it possible to make this pea soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, especially the traditional split pea soup adapts well for slow cooking. Simply sauté your veggies as instructed, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until peas are tender. For the fresh pea soup, stovetop is best due to the brief cooking time and blending step.
Can I prepare the fresh pea soup ahead of time and serve it cold?
Definitely! The fresh green pea soup tastes fantastic chilled, making it a refreshing appetizer or light lunch. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a stir before serving to revive its creamy texture and fresh flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a well-made pea soup, and with this Pea Soup Recipe: Traditional & Fresh Variations Recipe, you get the best of both worlds. Whether you cozy up with a steaming bowl of traditional split pea soup or savor the bright charm of fresh green pea soup, you’ll find comfort and delight in every spoonful. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy creating these timeless classics in your own kitchen—you might just discover a new favorite to share with those you love.
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Pea Soup Recipe: Traditional & Fresh Variations Recipe
- Total Time: Traditional: 1 hour 30 minutes | Fresh: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian (fresh version), Gluten-Free
Description
This recipe guide features two delightful pea soup variations: a hearty Traditional Split Pea Soup perfect for chilly days and a fresh, vibrant Green Pea Soup ideal for spring. Both are easy to prepare on the stovetop, offering versatile options for any season, including vegetarian and gluten-free adaptations.
Ingredients
Traditional Split Pea Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 1/2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced cooked ham
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh Green Pea Soup (Spring Variation)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups shelled fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Traditional Split Pea Soup: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and the bay leaf to release flavors. Add rinsed split peas, broth, and the smoked ham hock or diced cooked ham. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and the soup thickens. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock; shred any meat and return it to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.
- Prepare Fresh Green Pea Soup: In a saucepan, warm butter or olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the fresh or frozen green peas and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, until the peas are tender. Stir in fresh mint leaves if using, then remove from heat. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender to puree until smooth. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk to add richness, then season with salt and black pepper. Serve the soup warm or chilled as a refreshing option.
Notes
- Traditional split pea soup is rich and perfect for cold weather, providing a comforting and filling meal.
- Fresh green pea soup is lighter and excellent for spring, and can be served cold as a refreshing appetizer.
- To make either version vegetarian or vegan, omit the ham and use vegetable broth and plant-based milk alternatives like coconut milk.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste preferences, especially salt and pepper.
- Fresh pea soup can be garnished with additional mint leaves or a drizzle of cream for presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Traditional: 1 hour 15 minutes | Fresh: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, European
