Sweet Pea Soup
Creamy, hearty sweet pea soup combines green and yellow peas with tender vegetables, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for vegetarians seeking a nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add dried green peas and yellow peas to a large stock pot with water or vegetable cooking water according to package directions, or 3 cups water for every 1 cup peas.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add carrots, onion, parsnip, potato (if using), and celery to the pot.
- Continue cooking until peas have disintegrated to a creamy consistency and vegetables mash easily against the side of the pot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend the soup after cooking, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a bit of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. Substituting the dried peas with canned peas can save time, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can enhance the flavor if added near the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet pea soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or fried plantain for a delightful contrast in textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, where it will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Pea Soup contains roughly 438 calories, with 9g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (101% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 661mg per serving (29% 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 use fresh peas instead of dried peas in this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but the cooking time will be significantly shorter. Fresh peas typically only need about 10-15 minutes of simmering until tender. You may want to adjust the liquid in the recipe as well, using less water since fresh peas contain more moisture.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make sweet pea soup in a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deliciously creamy soup.
Can I add protein to this soup for a more filling meal?
Definitely! You can add cooked diced ham, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils to enhance its nutritional profile. Stir in your protein of choice during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through without compromising the soup's texture.
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).