How to Make French Pea Soup (Soupe au Pois)
French pea soup, or Soupe au Pois, is a delightful and healthy dish that brings the flavors of spring into your kitchen, even on the coldest days. This creamy, vibrant green soup is packed with fresh peas and herbs, making it both nutritious and comforting. Follow this simple recipe to recreate a classic French favorite at home.
Ingredients
To make a delicious French pea soup, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy texture)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Soupe au Pois:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. This step is essential as it builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes
Once the onion is translucent, add the diced potato to the pot. Stir to combine and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. The potato will add a creamy texture to the soup once blended.
Step 3: Introduce the Peas
Next, add the peas to the pot along with the broth. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. After reaching a boil, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and peas are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once cooked, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender. Be cautious to avoid burns from the hot liquid.
Step 5: Add Cream and Seasoning
If you prefer a richer texture, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Return to low heat for a few minutes to warm through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Soupe au Pois hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and flavor. This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a light salad. For a unique twist, try adding croutons or a dollop of crème fraîche as a topping.
Storage Tips
Leftover pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Enjoy your homemade French pea soup, a dish that is not only satisfying but also a perfect representation of French culinary simplicity and freshness.