Summer Pea Soup. Recipe

History of Summer Pea Soup:

Summer Pea Soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Peas have long been a staple in many culinary traditions, and their vibrant green color and sweet flavor make them a perfect ingredient for summer soups.

The origins of pea soup can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where peas were cultivated and used in various dishes. In medieval times, pea soup was a common food for peasants due to its affordability and availability. It was often made with dried peas and cooked for long periods of time to create a hearty and nutritious meal.

As time passed, pea soup became more refined and evolved into the refreshing and vibrant summer soup we know today. With the introduction of new cooking techniques and the availability of fresh peas, the dish transformed into a lighter and more delicate version, perfect for hot summer days.

Fun Facts about Peas:

- Peas are one of the oldest cultivated crops, dating back around 5,000 years.
- Peas are botanically classified as a fruit, but are considered a vegetable in culinary terms.
- Peas are an excellent source of vitamins C, A, and K, as well as dietary fiber.
- The world record for eating the most peas in three minutes is 628 peas!

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Summer Pea Soup:

Ingredients:
- 1 peck (approximately 8 liters) of fresh peas
- Good quality vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 head of lettuce, chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and cut into small pieces
- Fresh mint leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 lumps of sugar

Instructions:
1. Start by separating the older, larger peas from the younger, tender ones. This will ensure a smoother texture in the final soup.
2. In a large pot, bring the stock to a boil and add the older peas. Cook them until they are tender, usually for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Using a sieve or a blender, puree the cooked peas until smooth. Return the puree to the pot with the stock.
4. Add the younger peas, chopped lettuce, and cucumber to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the peas are just cooked and the lettuce has wilted slightly.
5. Finely chop a handful of fresh mint leaves and add them to the soup. This will give it a refreshing and aromatic flavor.
6. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a few lumps of sugar. The sugar will enhance the natural sweetness of the peas.
7. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve the Summer Pea Soup hot or cold, depending on your preference. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

Summer pea soup is a versatile dish that can be adapted and modified according to personal preferences. Here are some similar recipe dishes that you might enjoy:

1. Chilled Pea Gazpacho: Similar to the Summer Pea Soup, this dish combines the freshness of peas with the flavors of a traditional gazpacho. Blend fresh peas with tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and seasonings, then chill and serve cold.

2. Minted Pea and Avocado Soup: This variation incorporates the creaminess of avocado into the soup, creating a rich and velvety texture. Blend peas, avocado, vegetable stock, mint leaves, and lemon juice for a refreshing summer soup.

3. Pea and Ham Hock Soup: For a heartier option, combine the sweetness of peas with the smokiness of ham hock. Simmer the peas, ham hock, onions, and stock together until the flavors meld. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the soup for a comforting and flavorful dish.

4. Pea and Mint Risotto: This recipe takes the essence of pea soup and combines it with the creamy comfort of a risotto. Sauté onions, garlic, and Arborio rice, then slowly add vegetable stock and peas. Stir in fresh mint and grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Remember, these recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment and add your own twist to create the perfect pea dish to suit your taste buds. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer peas!

Vote