Real French Canadian Pea Soup

Real French Canadian Pea Soup Recipe - Vegan & Vegetarian

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Real French Canadian Pea Soup is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. This hearty and nutritious soup is perfect for cold winter days or anytime you want a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Pea soup has been a staple in French Canadian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated from the early French settlers who brought the recipe with them to Canada. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and been passed down through generations, becoming a beloved dish in French Canadian culture.

Ingredients

2 cups yellow split peas
5 cups water
2 small carrots, grated
1 small onion, chopped
2 tbsp sunflower oil or other light tasting oil or butter
1.5 cups soy milk or cows' milk
salt and pepper, to taste

How to prepare

Wash and rinse the split peas. Drain and place them in a large pot. Add 5 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes, then turn off the heat and cover the pot for 1 hour.
Next, add the carrots, onions, and half of the oil to the pot. Bring it back to a boil, cover it, and let it simmer for 1 hour or until the onions become translucent. If you prefer a creamier and thicker consistency, you can cook it for a longer duration.
Finally, add the remaining oil, soy milk, and spices. Serve the dish.

Variations

Add diced ham or bacon for a smoky flavor.
Stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness.
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of water and omit the butter.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the split peas thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

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

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more pepper or other spices.

- This soup can be easily frozen and reheated for a quick and convenient meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Real French Canadian Pea Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the split peas until they are soft and tender is key to achieving the perfect texture for this soup.

- Simmering the soup with the vegetables allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich and savory taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use green split peas instead of yellow split peas for a slightly different flavor and color.

- Substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Real French Canadian Pea Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Real French Canadian Pea Soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer like a pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Real French Canadian Pea Soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Real French Canadian Pea Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Real French Canadian Pea Soup contains approximately 6 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Real French Canadian Pea Soup contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Real French Canadian Pea Soup is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and butter, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Real French Canadian Pea Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and fiber. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Real French Canadian Pea Soup is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its hearty and nutritious ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Real French Canadian Pea Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Quebec. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook herself, had been making pea soup for as long as I could remember. But one day, she decided to teach me her special recipe for this classic French Canadian dish.

I watched as she carefully measured out the ingredients, explaining each step along the way. She told me that the key to a truly delicious pea soup was to use only the freshest ingredients, including dried split peas, smoked ham hocks, onions, carrots, and celery. As she stirred the pot, the aroma of the simmering soup filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

After a few hours of cooking, the soup was finally ready. My grandmother ladled out a steaming bowl for each of us, garnishing it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. As I took my first bite, I was transported back in time to my childhood, when my grandmother’s cooking was a source of comfort and joy.

From that day on, I knew that I had to learn the art of making Real French Canadian Pea Soup for myself. I practiced the recipe over and over again, experimenting with different variations and techniques until I had perfected it to my liking. I even added a few secret ingredients of my own, such as a dash of maple syrup and a pinch of thyme, to give the soup a unique twist.

Over the years, I shared my special recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its delicious and hearty flavor. I even entered it in a local cooking competition, where it won first prize and earned me a spot in the newspaper. But for me, the most rewarding part of making Real French Canadian Pea Soup was seeing the smiles on the faces of those who enjoyed it.

As I grew older, I continued to make the soup for special occasions and holidays, passing down the recipe to my own children and grandchildren. I taught them the importance of cooking with love and care, just as my grandmother had taught me all those years ago. And every time I make a pot of pea soup, I am reminded of the legacy of culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Now, as I sit at my kitchen table, stirring a pot of Real French Canadian Pea Soup on a cold winter day, I am filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. I am grateful for the memories of my grandmother’s teachings, and for the joy that cooking and sharing this special recipe has brought into my life. And as I take a sip of the warm, flavorful broth, I am reminded of the simple pleasures that come from a good bowl of soup made with love.