Creamy Pea Soup
A hearty, creamy pea soup with smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and rich flavor, perfect for comforting gatherings and satisfying lunch or dinner options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse peas in cold water; set aside.
- In a 6-quart Dutch oven, cook bacon; drain and dice.
- In bacon fat, cook celery and onion until clear.
- Add peas, water, potatoes, salt, pepper, bouillon cubes, bay leaf, and cooked bacon to the Dutch oven.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until peas are tender.
- Stir the soup.
- Remove and discard the bay leaf.
- Fill a blender three-quarters full; blend until pureed.
- Pour the pureed mixture into a large bowl; repeat until all is blended.
- Return the blended soup to the Dutch oven.
- Add cream; cook until hot, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Stir well.
- Serve with crumbled bacon and parsley on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken or vegetable stock instead of water. You can also substitute the cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. If you're short on time, canned split peas can be used, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the soup's creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy pea soup hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, enjoy it alongside Billy'S "Rave" Boneless Pork Loin or any of your favorite pork recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover creamy pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or stock to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can alter the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Pea Soup contains roughly 363 calories, with 8g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water. You might want to add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness that mimics the flavor of bacon.
How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup longer until it's completely smooth. For a thinner consistency, simply add more water or broth until you reach your desired texture. Remember to adjust the seasoning if you add more liquid.
Can I freeze leftover soup?
Yes, this creamy pea soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little liquid if necessary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).