Pea soup (Hernekeitto, hernesoppa)
Pea Soup Recipe (Hernekeitto, Hernesoppa) - Traditional Finnish Dish
Introduction
Pea soup, also known as Hernekeitto or hernesoppa, is a traditional Finnish dish that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. This soup is a staple in Finnish cuisine and is often enjoyed during the cold winter months.
History
Pea soup has been a popular dish in Finland for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages when peas were a common crop in the region. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been passed down through generations, becoming a beloved comfort food for many Finnish families.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Soak peas in water overnight. Boil and remove empty peels.
- Peel and chop the onion. Add whole peeled carrot. Add onion, meat, and marjoram or thyme. Boil covered for 1 - 1.5 hours, until the meat is done. Discard carrot. Cube the meat and return it. Serve hot with mustard.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace the salted pork shoulder with smoked tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of the soup.
- Creamy: Blend the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Soaking the peas overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.
- Removing the empty peels from the peas before cooking will result in a smoother texture.
- Adding a whole peeled carrot to the soup while cooking adds a subtle sweetness to the dish.
- Boiling the soup covered allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.
Serving Suggestions
Pea soup is traditionally served hot with a dollop of mustard on top. It pairs well with rye bread or Finnish rieska.
Cooking Techniques
Soaking the peas overnight
- Boiling the soup covered
- Cubing the meat before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Salted pork shoulder can be substituted with smoked ham or bacon.
- Marjoram or thyme can be substituted with rosemary or sage.
Make Ahead Tips
Pea soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve pea soup in a bowl with a swirl of mustard on top and a sprig of fresh thyme for garnish.
Pairing Recommendations
Pea soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or pickled vegetables on the side.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of pea soup contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Pea soup is a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams.
Fats
Pea soup is a moderate source of fats, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams.
Proteins
Pea soup is a rich source of proteins, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams.
Vitamins and minerals
Pea soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.
Alergens
Pea soup may contain allergens such as pork and mustard. Please check for allergens before consuming.
Summary
Pea soup is a nutritious and filling dish that is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Pea soup is a classic Finnish dish that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. This nutritious soup is a great option for a cozy meal during the cold winter months.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for pea soup many years ago. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting my friend Anna, who had just returned from a trip to Finland. She told me all about the delicious Finnish cuisine she had tried, including a hearty pea soup called Hernekeitto. I was immediately intrigued and asked her if she had the recipe. To my delight, she handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe that she had received from a local chef during her trip.
I took the recipe home and decided to give it a try. As I gathered the ingredients and started cooking, the delicious aroma of simmering peas and ham filled my kitchen. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When I finally took my first spoonful of the creamy, flavorful soup, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.
Over the years, I've made this pea soup countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. I've shared it with friends and family, who all agree that it is a comforting and satisfying dish. But the best part of this recipe is not just the taste, but the memories it brings back of that cold winter day when I first discovered it.
As I stirred the pot of simmering peas, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I've collected over the years. Each one holds a special place in my heart, a story behind how I came to learn it. Some recipes were passed down from my own grandmother, while others were discovered through travels and chance encounters with fellow food enthusiasts.
But this pea soup recipe stands out among them all. It represents a moment of serendipity, a chance discovery that has brought me so much joy and delicious meals. I can't help but feel grateful for Anna and her trip to Finland, for without her, I may never have stumbled upon this wonderful recipe.
As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of warm pea soup on a chilly evening, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the memories and stories that are woven into this simple dish. From Anna's travels to the local chef's kitchen in Finland, each ingredient in this recipe has its own tale to tell.
And as I take another spoonful of the creamy soup, I am reminded once again of the power of food to connect us, to bring us together and create lasting memories. I am grateful for this recipe and all the joy it has brought into my life. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and share this pea soup with others, its story will live on for generations to come.
Categories
| Finnish Recipes | Finnish Soups | Marjoram Recipes | Mustard Seed Recipes | Pea Recipes | Pork Recipes | Soup Recipes | Thyme Recipes |