Introduction

Pea soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for any time of the year. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will yield a delicious result. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect pea soup in 2023.

Ingredients

For the soup:

– 1 pound dried green peas

– 1 ham hock or smoked turkey leg

– 1 large onion, chopped

– 2 carrots, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 4 cloves of garlic, minced

– 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

– 2 bay leaves

– Salt and pepper to taste

For the garnish:

– Crispy bacon

– Chopped fresh parsley

– Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the peas

Start by rinsing the dried green peas under cold water. Then, place them in a large bowl and cover with water. Allow the peas to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will help soften the peas and reduce the cooking time.

Step 2: Cook the ham hock or smoked turkey leg

In a large pot, add the ham hock or smoked turkey leg and cover with water. Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside. Discard any bones or skin.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the peas and broth

Drain the soaked peas and add them to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 1 hour or until the peas are soft and cooked through.

Step 5: Blend the soup

Remove the bay leaves from the pot and use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, be sure to blend in batches and allow the soup to cool slightly before blending.

Step 6: Season and serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the pea soup hot, garnished with crispy bacon, chopped fresh parsley, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Pea Soup

– If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step and leave some of the peas and vegetables whole.

– For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock or smoked turkey leg and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

– Pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later.

Conclusion

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make a delicious pea soup that will impress your family and friends. The combination of tender peas, flavorful vegetables, and a hint of smoky meat creates a comforting and satisfying dish. So why not give it a try in 2023 and enjoy this timeless classic?