Cozy and Delicious Pea Soup Recipes: Comfort in a Bowl

lovely readers! Ever had one of those days where all you want is a big ol’ bowl of something warm and comforting? Well, let me tell ya, pea soup is where it’s at. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl. I’m gonna share some of my fave recipes that will make you feel all fuzzy inside. Grab a spoon and let’s dive in!

The Classic: Split Pea Soup with Ham

Okay, we’re starting with a classic. This one takes me right back to my grandma’s kitchen – the smell alone is enough to make me drool.

• 1 lb dried split peas
• 1 ham hock (or a cup of diced ham)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Rinse the peas and set ’em aside.
2. In a large pot, saut the onion, carrots, and celery until they’re nice and soft.
3. Throw in the garlic and cook for another minute (careful not to burn it!).
4. Add the peas, ham hock, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!

Vegetarian Delight: Green Pea and Mint Soup

This ones for my veggie pals out there. Its light, fresh, and oh-so-green. Plus, its super easy to whip up.

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 potato, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups fresh or frozen peas
• 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crme frache (optional, but totally worth it!)

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot and saut the onion until it’s soft.
2. Add the potato and vegetable broth, and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potato is tender.
4. Stir in the peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, add the mint leaves, and blend until smooth. (Careful, it’s hot!)
6. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with a dollop of crme frache if youre feeling fancy.

Hearty and Hearty: Smoky Bacon and Pea Soup

If you’re looking for something with a little more oomph, this smoky bacon version is the bomb. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for a chilly night.

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb dried split peas
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the bacon in a large pot until it’s crispy. Remove and set aside, but leave the bacon fat in the pot.
2. In the same pot, saut the onion, carrots, and celery in the bacon fat until they’re soft.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the split peas, chicken broth, bay leaf, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and stir in the crispy bacon before serving.

A Bit of Fancy: Pea and Parmesan Soup

Want to impress your dinner guests? This pea and Parmesan soup is elegant and delicious. Plus, it’s super easy to make. Win-win!

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh or frozen peas
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot and saut the onion until it’s soft.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the peas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth. (Again, careful – it’s hot!)
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Quick and Easy: Pea Soup in a Hurry

Short on time but still craving that comforting bowl of pea soup? This quick version is ready in a jiffy and still packs a punch.

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh or frozen peas
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Croutons for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot and saut the onion until it’s soft.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the peas and broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth. (Hot stuff, be careful!)
6. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with croutons if you like a bit of crunch.

Bonus Tips for the Perfect Pea Soup

Alright, now that weve got some killer recipes, here are a few tips to make your pea soup even better:

• Use good broth: The quality of your broth makes a big difference. Homemade is best, but if youre using store-bought, go for the low-sodium kind and adjust seasoning to taste.
• Blend carefully: Hot liquids and blenders can be a dangerous combo. Let the soup cool slightly before blending, and blend in batches if needed.
• Adjust thickness: If your soup is too thick, add a bit more broth. If its too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
• Season well: Dont skimp on the salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Get creative: Dont be afraid to add your own twist. Try adding a splash of cream, a handful of fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top.

Let’s Hear from You!

Whats your favorite way to make pea soup? Got any secret ingredients or family recipes? Share in the comments below! And hey, if you try any of these recipes, let us know how they turned out. Happy cooking, yall!

And for a little extra inspo, check out this video on making the perfect pea soup. Its a game-changer!

Stay warm and cozy, and enjoy your delicious pea soup adventures!