How to Make French Sweet Pea Soup
French sweet pea soup, known for its vibrant color and fresh flavor, is a delightful dish that brings the essence of spring to your table. This simple yet elegant soup can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it a versatile recipe for any season. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious French sweet pea soup.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen sweet peas
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup of fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of heavy cream (optional)
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your French sweet pea soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This will form the base of your soup.
Step 2: Add the Sweet Peas
Once the onions are ready, add the sweet peas to the pot. If you’re using frozen peas, no need to thaw them beforehand. Stir the peas with the onions for about 2 minutes, allowing them to mix and heat through.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Next, carefully pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes. The peas should be tender and bright green during this time.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it reaches a smooth and silky consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Just remember to allow steam to escape to prevent splatters.
Step 5: Stir in Fresh Mint
Once blended, return the soup to low heat. Stir in the chopped fresh mint and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a richer flavor, this is the time to mix in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to warm for a few more minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once your soup is hot and well-seasoned, it’s ready to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and extra mint leaves for an added touch of freshness. Enjoy it warm, or let it cool and serve chilled for a summer delight.
Final Thoughts
This French sweet pea soup is a perfect dish to impress your guests or to savor during a cozy night in. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s not only enjoyable but also healthy. With fresh seasonal ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s a soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Try making this recipe today and relish the taste of homemade French sweet pea soup!