Cream of Dried Pea Soup

Cream of Dried Pea Soup – Flavorful Vegetarian Recipe from Romania

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cream of dried pea soup is a classic dish that is both comforting and nutritious. Made with simple ingredients like dried peas, vegetables, and herbs, this soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day.

History

Dried pea soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Europe, where dried peas were a common ingredient in many dishes due to their long shelf life and nutritional value. Over time, different variations of dried pea soup have emerged, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

3 qt / 3 liters water
0.5 lb / 250 g dried peas
1 parsley root
1 carrot
1 onion
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp butter or oil
1 tsp chopped dill
salt
cubed toasted bread

How to prepare

Pick over and wash the peas and pre-soak them in tepid water overnight.
Then drain the water and boil the peas in fresh tepid water.
During the last boiling, add the onion, carrot, and parsley root to the peas.
Cover and let it boil at low temperature.
Once the peas are tender, remove the carrot and parsley root, strain the peas, and sieve them with the onion.
Thin the soup with a little of the strained liquid.
Boil the soup again, adding a tablespoon of butter or oil and salt.
After it comes to a boil, add the chopped parsley.
Serve the soup with croutons.

Variations

Add cooked ham or bacon for a smoky flavor.
Stir in a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or mint for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the dried peas overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.

- Adding a teaspoon of sugar to the soup can help balance out the flavors and enhance the natural sweetness of the peas.

- For a creamier texture, you can blend the soup with an immersion blender before serving.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or herbs as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cream of dried pea soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the peas with the vegetables helps to infuse the soup with their flavors.

- Straining and sieving the peas creates a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adding butter or oil at the end of cooking enhances the richness of the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh peas instead of dried peas, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

- Substitute the parsley root with celery or parsnip for a similar flavor profile.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth of flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Cream of dried pea soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the cream of dried pea soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the cream of dried pea soup with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cream of dried pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of cream of dried pea soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of cream of dried pea soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of cream of dried pea soup contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

One serving of cream of dried pea soup contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cream of dried pea soup is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as gluten (from the toasted bread) and soy (if using oil).

Summary

Cream of dried pea soup is a nutritious and filling dish that is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Cream of dried pea soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cream of Dried Pea Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious soups and stews, had received the recipe from a dear friend who had traveled to a distant land and brought back culinary treasures.

I was always fascinated by the way my grandmother could take simple ingredients and transform them into a gourmet meal. Her kitchen was always filled with the tantalizing smells of herbs and spices, and I would often sneak in to watch her work her magic.

One day, as I was helping my grandmother prepare for a big family dinner, she pulled out a faded old recipe card from her collection. It was written in elegant script, with detailed instructions on how to make the most velvety and flavorful Cream of Dried Pea Soup. I watched in awe as she measured out the dried peas, soaked them in water, and simmered them with onions, carrots, and herbs until they were soft and tender.

As the soup bubbled away on the stove, filling the kitchen with its comforting aroma, my grandmother explained to me the importance of patience and attention to detail in cooking. She showed me how to taste and adjust the seasoning, how to blend the soup until it was smooth and creamy, and how to garnish it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

I was captivated by the process, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this soup myself. My grandmother smiled at my eagerness and promised to teach me everything she knew about cooking. And so, over the years, I honed my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I could recreate her Cream of Dried Pea Soup with perfection.

I will never forget the day when I served this soup to my own family for the first time. The looks of surprise and delight on their faces as they tasted the rich, velvety broth and the tender chunks of vegetables warmed my heart. They praised me for my culinary skills, but I knew that it was all thanks to my grandmother and her invaluable lessons.

Since that day, Cream of Dried Pea Soup has become a staple in my household, especially during the colder months when a steaming bowl of soup is the ultimate comfort food. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing down the tradition of this delicious dish to the next generation.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of my youth and the joy that cooking has brought me over the years, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the legacy of culinary knowledge that my grandmother bestowed upon me. I can only hope that I have been able to inspire others to discover the magic of good food and the joy of sharing a home-cooked meal with loved ones.

And so, every time I make a pot of Cream of Dried Pea Soup, I am reminded of my grandmother and the bond that we shared through our shared love of cooking. Her spirit lives on in every spoonful of this soup, and I am forever grateful for the lessons she taught me and the memories we created together in the kitchen. Cooking is not just about feeding the body, but also nourishing the soul, and I am blessed to have learned that lesson from the best teacher of all - my beloved grandmother.